De Immigrant Windmill

City Council Meeting Minutes

The City Council meets on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month at 5:30 p.m.  The City Council meets in the Council Chambers of Fulton City  Hall, 415 11th Avenue.  Council meetings are open to the public.

City of Fulton
Regular Council Meeting Minutes
May 19, 2016

Mayor Russell called the meeting to order at 5:30 and directed the city clerk to call the roll. On roll call Ald. Barbara Mask, Gene Field, Margaret Crosthwaite, Sue VanKampen, Wes Letcher, M. VanZuiden and H. VanZuiden answered, “present.” Ald. Dan Nederhoff was absent. Also in attendance were Bill Shirk (City Attorney), James Rhoades (Police Chief) Dan Clark (Public Works Director), and Clink Kettler (Zoning Officer).

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

During the communication from visitors Rich Petersen spoke about the Bike Blessing to be held June 5, 2016. The Bike Blessing did not make it on the agenda and will be discussed at the next meeting to finalize all details. Ald. M. VanZuiden suggested having a fence to keep people in beer garden. Chief Rhoades confirmed a 3 ft. barrier must surround the beer garden. Attorney Shirk clarified it must be a rule for the event, not listed in ordinance. Darwin Johnson, 1010 4th Ave wants to know what the city is going to do about the sewer back up that happened late May 11 into May 12. Attorney Shirk stated the city is not liable to pay for damages; it is the responsibility of the homeowner to carry insurance to cover these types of damages. Mike McClary was also present to ask what is going to be done regarding the sewer back up after the storm last week. Everyone else was present regarding an item on the agenda.

Mayor Russell asked if there were any questions regarding the items listed on the consent agenda. Items for consideration are the May 2, 2016 City Council Meeting Minutes, Treasurer’s Report, Bill List and Nominated Adam Cooprider to the Zoning Board of Appeals. Mayor Russell noted to the city clerk the name of the reporter from the Fulton Journal is Kayla. Ald. Crosthwaite asked that item C. Bill List is removed from the consent agenda. With no further questions or concerns Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. VanKampen to approve the consent agenda. Roll call vote (7 yes, 1 absent).

The Bill list was removed from the consent agenda to be voted on separately. Ald. Field asked why the city was paying so much a month for the copier through RK Dixon. With no further questions or concerns Ald. Field motioned, seconded by Ald. Mask to approve the Bill List. Roll call vote (6 no, 1 yes, 1 absent). The Bill List was not approved, Ald. Crosthwaite asked for Reimburse for slip rental to be removed from the Bill List. Ald. VanKampen motioned, seconded by Ald. Mask to approve the Bill List with the correction. Roll call vote (7 yes, 1 absent).

First item for consideration is the amendment to second and third extension and modification agreement. The amendment adds language relating to number of jobs retained and gained for each modification. With no further questions or concerns Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. M. VanZuiden to approve the amendment. Roll call vote (7 yes).

Second item for consideration is the bid opening of the heritage residential lots. The city received one bid from Leon & Katie Groh to purchase the lot to the northeast. They are willing to purchase the whole lot for $25,000 or purchase ½ of the lot that connects to their property for $10,000. The council has 45 days from today to accept or reject any bids.

Third item for consideration is Electrical Aggregation Rates. New prices have been set by ComEd, which are lower than the current rate we are on contract for with community aggregation through September 2018. It is said that the rates could go down, there is a bidding process that can affect the rate for community aggregation. With no further questions or concerns they moved to the next item on the agenda.

The fourth item for consideration is the discussion on whether to amend the number of available liquor license in Fulton. Currently there are still available liquor licenses for a variety of new businesses however if any other businesses were wanting to open with a liquor license would the city want to amend the ordinance to allow another liquor license. Council did not see any need to act on this right away since there are still available licenses. With no further questions or concerns they moved to the next item on the agenda.

The fifth item for consideration is the variance request, which was passed by the Fulton Zoning Board of Appeals. Mr. Brad Houzenga needs a 4-foot setback on the west side of the property to expand the existing single car garage. The variance was passed unanimous by the members of the zoning board. With no further questions or concerns Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to approve the variance request. Roll call vote (7 yes, 1 absent).

Old Business:

Warran Amman has been working with the city to make a private connection to the city’s storm sewer. City engineer has approved the construction plans for the private storm sewer connection. With no further questions or concerns Ald. Van Kampen motioned, seconded by Ald. Mask to approve the connection to city storm sewer. Roll call vote (7 yes, 1 absent).

Reports:

Mayor Russell included his written report.
Mayor Russell apologized for requesting a refund for a boat slip with the City of Fulton. After asking the harbormaster for a refund and knowing that refunds were not granted, Mayor Russell had a city employee issue him the refund anyways. Council members were unaware of this situation until almost 3 weeks after the situation occurred. There were mixed emotions regarding the situation and nothing was decided or solved.

Administrator Cannon included his written report.

April Eschelman Director of the Fulton Chamber of Commerce reported the financial standings and how the commerce planed more fundraisers to keep up on accounts.

Chief of Police Rhoades included his written report.

Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to enter closed session to discuss collective bargaining, personnel and setting the price for sale of city-owned property. Roll call vote (7 yes, 1 absent). The council entered closed session at 7:19 PM.

Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Van Kampen to exit closed session. Roll call vote (7 yes, 1 absent). The council exited closed session at 8:13 PM.

With no further business, Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Crosthwaite to adjourn. With voice agreement the meeting adjourned at 8:14 PM.

Minutes recorded by,

Lindsey Renkes
Fulton City Clerk

CITY OF FULTON REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING May 16, 2016 5:30 PM 1. Call to order 2. Roll call 3. Pledge of allegiance 4. Communication from visitors 5. Consent Agenda (All items in the consent agenda will be enacted by a single motion and roll call vote. Any item may be removed upon request by the Mayor or any Alderman and considered individually after all other items of business on the consent agenda). A. Approve May 2, 2016 City Council Meeting Minutes (pages 1-3) B. Approve Treasurer’s Report (pages 4-12) C. Approve Bill List (located at end of packet) D. Adam Cooprider nominated to the Zoning Board of Appeals Action: Motion to approve Consent Agenda 6. Rule on Items Removed from Consent Agenda 7 Items for Consideration: A. Amendment to Second and Third Extension and Modification Agreement (pages 13-14) Summary: Amends the second and third revolving loan agreements with Fulton Lodging to add language relating to number of jobs retained and gained for each modification. Action: Approve Amendment B. Bid Opening, Heritage Residential Lots Summary: Sealed bids to be opened for the two city-owned residential lots located in the Heritage Residential subdivision. Public notice was published 3 successive weeks in the Fulton Journal as per Ord. #1538. The city has up to 45 days after bid opening to award contract to highest bid if deemed in the best interest of the city. Action: Discussion only C. Electrical Aggregation Rates (page 15) Summary: ComEd has announced new rates starting June 2016. The new summer rate is 6.195 and the winter rate is 6.315. Fulton’s community aggregation rate is 6.56 k/hr., which is slightly higher than ComEd. Fulton’s electrical aggregation contract runs through September 2018. Action: Discussion only D. City Liquor Licenses (page 16) Summary: Discussion on whether to amend the number of available liquor licenses in Fulton. Action: Discussion only E. Variance Request (Zoning Board Meeting) Summary: Fulton Zoning Board of Appeals passed (unanimous – 6 members present) a motion to approve a 4 foot setback on the western side of residential property belonging to Brad Houzenga, at 1206 2nd Avenue, during a public hearing on May 12, 2016. This will allow Mr. Houzenga an expansion to the existing single car garage. Action: Rule on variance request 8. Old Business A. Amman Storm Sewer Agreement (page 17) Summary: City engineers have approve the construction plans for a private storm sewer connection from Mr. Warren’s residence at 1221 11th Ave. to the city storm sewer on the east side of 13th Street. Action: Approve connection to city storm sewer 9. Reports Mayor (pages 18-20) Administrator Report (page 21) Chamber of Commerce – April Eshelman Police Chief Rhoades – (page22) Aldermen 10. Executive Session to discuss collective bargaining, personnel, and setting the price for sale of city-owned property 11. Return to Open Session 12. Adjourn
City of Fulton Regular Council Meeting Minutes May 2, 2016 Mayor Russell called the meeting to order at 5:30 and directed the city clerk to call the roll. On roll call Ald. Barbara Mask, Gene Field, Dan Nederhoff, Margaret Crosthwaite, Sue VanKampen, Wes Letcher, M. VanZuiden and H. VanZuiden answered, “present.” Also in attendance were Ed Cannon (City Administrator), Bill Shirk (City Attorney), Cory Flack (Police Officer) Dan Clark (Public Works Director), and Clink Kettler (Zoning Officer). The pledge of allegiance was recited. During the communication from visitors everyone was present regarding an item on the agenda. James Driscoll, Jim Driscoll, Brenda Driscoll and Jason Kraft were present regarding the variance request. Randy Boonstra, Alexandra Boysen (Clinton Herald) and Gail (Fulton Journal) were present. Mayor Russell asked Ald. Field and Crosthwaite to serve on the ad hoc committee for the special events rules application. Ald. H. VanZuiden motioned, seconded by Ald. VanKampen to appoint Ald. Field and Crosthwaite to the committee. Roll call vote (8 yes). Mayor Russell asked if there were any questions on the items listed on the consent agenda. Items for consideration are the April 18, 2016 Meeting Minutes, Rich Kummerer nominated to the Zoning Board of Appeals and Special Events Rules Ad hoc Committee Appointment. Ald. M. VanZuiden asked for a time frame on the special events application. With no further questions or concerns Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. Field to approve the items on the consent agenda. Roll call vote (8 yes). First item for consideration is the Variance Request for James Driscoll 711 8th Ave. Mr. Driscoll is looking for a 5 ft setback to build a garage on his property. The Zoning Board of Appeals was unable to agree and motion for approval. The Zoning Board of Appeals has been unable to get a full board for the meetings, which made it difficult for them to get an approval for the variance. Mr. Driscoll explained to the council his frustrations and concerns and the council was able to ask him any questions about the garage he planned on building. With no further questions or concerns Ald. M. VanZuiden motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to pass the variance request with a 5-foot setback. Roll call vote (8 yes). Second item for consideration is to move General Fund Reserves to repay $49,310.37 to the Fulton Revolving Loan Fund. The reason for having to move the funds was during the tear down of structures and putting in sewer lines for the new Fire Department building funds were used from the loan to make these improvements. The reason for the transfer was discovered during the grant funds review, we are repaying ourselves by transferring from reserves to the revolving loan fund. With no further questions or concerns Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. Crosthwaite to move general funds to repay revolving loan fund. Roll call vote (8 yes). Third item for consideration the city clerk has received notice of a dangerous building at 1516 4th St. In order to continue with the process the council must appoint three competent individuals to determine whether the structure has been damaged to the extent of 50% of its value. Ald. Mask suggested the property the house is sitting on should become a parking lot for the baseball fields. City Attorney Shirk stated the city must file for 1st lien position to keep the property/land, by filing this request the city could jump ahead of the current lien holder. Ald. Crosthwaite asked what the cost of demolition would be for the house and garage. Director Clark had no good guess as to what it would cost for demolition. Ald. VanKampen believes the house cannot be fixed, the wall has caved in. The council will ask competent persons and name the three in the next city council meeting. Fourth item for consideration Resolution #262 to support and commit of Local Funds for a USDA Grant. The funds used for the project will be approximately 52% of the project costs. The grant will be in the amount of $99,000 and the city will have to pay approximately $140,000 to loop the sewer main from 22nd Ave to 31st St. With no further questions or concerns Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. VanKampen to support the commitment of Local Funds for a USDA Grants. Roll call vote (8 yes). Old Business: Administrator Cannon talked with Beckwith Commercial Roofing to see how it would cost to repair the roof at the old Drives building and to remove the chimney. After inspection the north building needs to be replaced as soon as possible. The roof is currently leaking through both floors and will eventually ruin the structure. The estimate of spot repair is $35,000. The estimate from Beckwith estimates the north building roof repair at $25,000; estimate to remove the chimney is $5,000 to $8,000. Administrator Cannon is not sure where the money will come from to repair the building. Ald. Crosthwaite would like to see the estimates/numbers. Ald. M. VanZuiden suggested leaving the chimney; it would cost less money than making minor fixes to what it there. Administrators Report: Administrator Cannon included his written report. Ald. H. VanZuiden motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to enter closed session to discuss personnel and setting the price for sale of city-owned property. Roll call vote (8 yes). The council entered closed session at 6:38 PM. Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. VanKampen to exit closed session. Roll call vote (8 yes). The council exited closed session at 6:42 PM. With no further business, Ald. Field motioned, seconded by Ald. Crosthwaite to adjourn. With voice agreement the meeting adjourned at 6:43 PM. Minutes recorded by, Lindsey Renkes Fulton City Clerk
CITY OF FULTON REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING May 2, 2016 5:30 PM 1. Call to order 2. Roll call 3. Pledge of allegiance 4. Communication from visitors 5. Consent Agenda (All items in the consent agenda will be enacted by a single motion and roll call vote. Any item may be removed upon request by the Mayor or any Alderman and considered individually after all other items of business on the consent agenda). A. Approval of April 18, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes (pages 1-3) B. Rich Kummerer nominated to the Zoning Board of Appeals C. Special Events Rules Ad Hoc Committee Appointment Action: Motion to approve Consent Agenda 6. Rule on Items Removed from Consent Agenda 7 Items for Consideration: A. Variance Request (Zoning Board Meeting Minutes – page 4) Summary: Fulton Zoning Board of Appeals denied a motion to approve a 5 foot setback on the eastern side of residential property belonging to James Driscoll at 711 8th Ave. during a public hearing on April 22, 2016. It is recommended by the Zoning Board Committee to adhere to the Fulton Ordinance Code of a 7 foot setback from the lot line. Action: Rule on variance request. B. Motion to use General Fund Reserves to repay $49,310.37 to the Fulton Revolving Loan Fund Summary: During 2006 and 2007 the city used $49,310.37 from the Revolving Loan Fund to pay for site demolition and clean-up at the old JT Cullen property, and for a sewer extension across Route 84 for the Fulton Fire District. DCEO is requiring the city refund these funds back to the Revolving Loan Fund because the city did not receive prior written approval from DCEO for these projects as per state guidelines. Failure to repay the Revolving Loan fund will jeopardize future state grant funds for public infrastructure projects. Action: Approve motion C. Dangerous Building - 1516 4th Street (pages 5-9) Summary: The City Clerk received notice of a dangerous building at 1516 4th Street in Fulton. Fulton ordinances require the City Council to appoint three (3) competent persons to determine whether the structure has been damaged to the extent of 50% of its value. Action: Motion to appoint three-member committee D. Resolution #262 – The Support and Commitment of Local Funds for a USDA Grant (page10) Summary: A resolution to support the commitment of local funds for use in conjunctions with the USDA Rural Business Development Grant application - such funds to equal approximately 52% of the project costs. Action: Approve Commitment Resolution 8. Old Business A. Drives Building Roof (pages 11-12) Summary: See attached summery Action: Discussion 9. Reports Mayor Administrator Report (pages 13-14) 10. Executive Session to discuss personnel and setting the price for sale of city-owned property 11. Return to Open Session 12. Adjourn
City of Fulton Regular Council Meeting Minutes April 18, 2016 Pro Tem Mayor H. VanZuiden called the meeting to order at 5:30 PM and directed the city clerk to call the roll. On roll call Ald. Barbara Mask, Gene Field, Dan Nederhoff, Margaret Crosthwaite, Sue VanKampen, Wes Letcher, M. VanZuiden and Pro Tem Mayor H. VanZuiden answered, “present.” Also in attendance were Ed Cannon (City Administrator), Bill Shirk (City Attorney), Regina Lehman (Tourism & Community Services Director), James Rhoades (Chief of Police) Dan Clark (Public Works Director), Amanda Fosdick (City Treasurer) and Clink Kettler (Zoning Officer). The pledge of allegiance was recited. Pastor Roy Ann Matthews gave the invocation. During the communication from visitors Larry Leonard from Large 1’s Pub wanted to notice the city that the annual Bike Blessing is to be held on June 5, 2016. Lilly Wisely and Tim Clark were here on behalf of the Clinton Humane Society. Mike Kirchhoff and Andy Sokolovich were present regarding the Clinton Regional Development Corporation to give an update. Jason and Brittany Brewer were present to get approval to keep a micro pig in their home, currently not allowed within city limits. John Rohlf was present on behalf of the Clinton Herald. Pro Tem Mayor H. VanZuiden asked if there were any questions on the items listed on the consent agenda. Items for consideration are the April 4, 2016 Meeting Minutes, Treasurer’s Report and the Bill List. With no questions or concerns Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. Crosthwaite to approve the items on the consent agenda. Roll call vote (8 yes). On the list of items for consideration Administrator Cannon asked that 7 C. Heritage Canyon Caretaker Agreement Amendment be taken off the list. With no further questions on the issue it was removed from the agenda. First item for consideration is the Mutts on the Mississippi Run/Walk. Lilly Wisely from the Clinton Humane Society was present to ask permission of the Fulton City Council to have the run/walk end in Fulton this year. The date set for Mutts on the Mississippi is October 8, 2016. Ald. Mask is excited that they have decided to end the walk in Fulton this year. With no further questions or concerns Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Nederhoff to approved the Mutts on the Mississippi Run/Walk. Roll call vote (8 yes). Second item for consideration is Clinton Regional Development Corporation. Mike Kirchhoff first talked about the retention and expansion of new businesses to the area. New businesses are looking for the cheapest place to make the most money. The CRDC is trying to make it possible to bring new businesses to the area. Andy Sokolovich is working with existing businesses in the area to help expand the current industry and help them make more money. Andy has been visiting Fulton businesses with Ed to grow both the relationship and business. Third item for consideration is the Danielson Second Extension and Modification Agreement. The agreement is the extend the current revolving loan until April 15, 2021 with all remaining terms unchanged. With no further questions or concerns Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. VanKampen to approve the extension agreement. Roll call vote (8 yes). Fourth item for consideration is the request to allow seine within city limits. Jason & Brittany Brewer are requesting approval to have a micro pig as a pet within the city limits. Jason & Brittany assured the council the pig will be kept in doors and it will use a litter box, they might possibly walk it on a leash. With no further questions or concerns Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. Mask to give the Brewer’s approval to keep the micro pig at their home within Fulton City Limits. Roll call vote (8 yes). Administrators Report: Administrator Cannon included his written report. Police Report: Chief Rhoades included his written report. The charts included compare calls and arrests related to the topics listed. Chief Rhoades stated calls and arrests have been consistent so fat this year. The other charts included in the report compare Fulton to Morrison showing the additional traffic we receive because of our location to the river and another state. Public Works Director Report: Director Clark included his written report. Dan wanted to remind everyone of John Blunts retirement, Public Works will be cooking out on April 21st, 2016 at noon. Tourism and Community Services Director Report: Director Lehman included her written report. Tourism Committee Report: The written report has been included. Windmill Area Steering Committee Report: The written report has been included. Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to enter closed session to discuss collective bargaining and personnel. Roll call vote (8 yes). The council entered closed session at 6:35 PM. Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to exit closed session. Roll call vote (8 yes). The council exited closed session at 6:43 PM. With no further business, Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. Van Kampen to adjourn. With voice agreement the meeting adjourned at 6:44 PM. Minutes recorded by, Lindsey Renkes Fulton City Clerk

CITY OF FULTON
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
April 18, 2016
5:30 PM

1. Call to order

2. Roll call

3. Pledge of allegiance

4. Communication from visitors

5. Consent Agenda (All items in the consent agenda will be enacted by a single motion and roll call vote. Any item may be removed upon request by the Mayor or any Alderman and considered individually after all other items of business on the consent agenda).

A. Approval of March 7, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes (pages 1-2)

B. Approve Treasurer’s Report (pages 3-11)

C. Approve Bill List (located at end of packet)

Action: Motion to approve Consent Agenda

6. Rule on Items Removed from Consent Agenda

7 Items for Consideration:

A. Mutts on the Mississippi Presentation (pages 12-13)

B. Clinton Regional Development Corporation Update

C. Heritage Canyon Caretaker Agreement Amendment (page 14)

Summary: Amendment requires caretaker to pay gas and electric utilities.

Action: Approve amendment

D. Danielson Second Extension and Modification Agreement (pages 15-17)

Summary: Agreement extends the Revolving Loan to Danielson Properties, LLC to April 15, 2021 with all remaining terms unchanged.

Action: Approve agreement

E. Request to allow swine within city limits

Summary: Resident requesting approval to keep a micro pig within city limits. Fulton Code §94.01 (A) makes it unlawful to keep certain animals (including swine) within the city limits without written permission from the City Council.

Action: Discussion and possible vote

8. Old Business

9. Reports

Mayor
Administrator Report (pages 18-26)
Alderman
Police Chief Report (pages 27-28)
Public Works Director Report (page 29)
Tourism and Community Services Director Report (pages 30-31)
Tourism Committee Report (pages 32-33)
Windmill Area Steering Committee Report (pages 34-35)
10. Executive Session to discuss collective bargaining and personnel

11. Return to Open Session

12. Adjourn

City of Fulton
Regular Council Meeting Minutes
April 4, 2016

Mayor Russell called the meeting to order at 5:30 PM and directed the city clerk to call the roll. On roll call Ald. Barbara Mask, Gene Field, Dan Nederhoff, Sue VanKampen, and Wes Letcher answered, “present.” Ald. Margaret Crosthwaite showed up late. Ald. Mike VanZuiden and Howard VanZuiden were “absent.” Also in attendance were Ed Cannon (City Administrator), Bill Shirk (City Attorney), Regina Lehman (Tourism & Community Services Director), April Eschelman (Chamber of Commerce Director), James Rhoades (Chief of Police) and Clink Kettler (Zoning Officer).

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

Notice of public hearing for Proposed Fiscal Year 2016 Annual Budget as noticed in the Fulton Journal and City Hall on April 7, 2016. Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. VanKampen to open the public hearing for the proposed fiscal year annual budget. Roll call vote (6 yes, 2 absent).

With no questions or concerns from the public Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. Crosthwaite to close the public hearing for the proposed fiscal year annual budget. Roll call vote (6 yes, 2 absent).

During the communication from visitors Jason and Brittney Brewer made comments regarding a current ordinance that does not allow residents within city limits to have pigs as pets. The couple is looking to adopt a micro pig (very small pig that weighs 15 lbs. at full growth) as a pet. The council decided to put this ordinance on the list for the next meetings agenda.

Mayor Russell asked if there were any questions regarding the items on the consent agenda. Items for consideration are the March 21, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes. With no questions or concerns Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to approve the items on the consent agenda. Roll call vote (6 yes, 2 absent).

First item for consideration is the variance request for Jimmy Driscoll. Don Loftus from the Zoning board was present to explain the denial from the meeting on March 31, 2016. Fulton code requires a 7’ side lot setback, while Mr. Driscoll is looking for a variance to allow him to build 5’ from the side lot line. Mr. Driscoll explained the garage he is looking to build (as shown on page 4) to the council and as to why he is asking for the 5’ variance. After listening to both Mr. Loftus and Driscoll the city council motioned by Ald. Mask, seconded by Ald. Letcher to send it back to the Zoning Board of Appeals to vote again on the variance request. Roll call vote (6 yes, 2 absent).

Second item for consideration is to approve the Ordinance to adopt the Annual Budget of the City Pursuant to Section 8-2-9.4 of the Illinois Municipal Code. After completion of the public hearing in accordance with Illinois Municipal Code Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to approve the budget ordinance. Roll call vote (6 yes, 2 absent).

Third item for consideration is to remove the two Heritage Residential lots from surplus property and allow the City to accept bids to properties. A public notice will be published weekly in the Fulton Journal for three weeks. The City Council has the right to reject any bids. With no further questions Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Crosthwaite to approve the ordinance directing the Sale of Real Estate Owned by the City of Fulton.

Fourth item for consideration is the Special Event Policy to establish appropriate rules and regulations and establish an application and license fee for outdoor events. The application idea came from Clinton’s application for their special events. It was decided there needs to be a list of co-sponsored events that are exempt from the application. With many unanswered questions and concerns Ald. Letcher motioned to hold off on the vote and be addressed at a later time after changes to the application have been made.

Fifth item for consideration is to approve the Industrial Center Farm Lease. The contract is to lease 98-acre property to Doug Holesinger for the 2016 crop year; the lease is for $27,225. With no questions or concerns Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. Nederhoff to approve the farm lease. Roll call vote (6 yes, 2 absent).

Mayor’s Report:
Mayor Russell included his written report.

Administrator’s Report:
Administrator Cannon included his written report.

Marina Committee Report:
Dan Clark included the marina report.

Martin House Financial Report:
Financial Report for the Martin House was included.

With no further business, Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. VanKampen to adjourn. With voice agreement the meeting adjourned at 6:55 PM.

Minutes recorded by,

Lindsey Renkes
Fulton City Clerk

CITY OF FULTON
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
April 4, 2016
5:30 PM

1. Call to order

2. Roll call

3. Pledge of allegiance

4. Public Hearing for Consideration of Proposed Fiscal Year 2016 Annual Budget (budget located at end of packet)

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.

5. Close Public Hearing

6. Communication from visitors

7. Consent Agenda (All items in the consent agenda will be enacted by a single motion and roll call vote. Any item may be removed upon request by the Mayor or any Alderman and considered individually after all other items of business on the consent agenda).

A. Approval of March 21, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes (pages 1-3)

Action: Motion to approve Consent Agenda

8. Rule on Items Removed from Consent Agenda

9. Items for Consideration

A. Variance Request (page 4)

Summary: Fulton Zoning Board of Appeals denied a motion to approve a 5 foot setback on the eastern side of residential property belonging to James Driscoll at 711 8th Ave. during a public hearing on March 31, 2016. Fulton code requires a 7’ side lot setback. A 2/3 vote by the City Council is required to override a variance denial by the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Action: Rule on variance request.

B. Ordinance #1537 Adopting the Annual Budget of the City Pursuant to Section 8-2-9.4 of the Illinois Municipal Code (pages 5-6)

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 29, 2016.

Action: Approve budget ordinance

C. Ordinance #1538 Directing the Sale of Real Estate Owned by the City of Fulton (pages 7-9)

Summary: Ordinance removes the two Heritage Residential lots from consideration as surplus property and allows the City to accept sealed bids to purchase the fee simple interest of the properties. Public notice will be published weekly in the Fulton Journal for three weeks beginning April 12th with bids due by Wednesday, May 11, 2016. Bid opening will be Monday, May 16, 2016 during the Regular City Council Meeting.

Action: Approve Ordinance

D. Special Event Policy (pages 10-16)

Summary: Ordinance #1524 (May 18, 2015) specifies the City Council shall establish appropriate rules and regulations and establish an application and license fee for outdoor events.

Action: Motion to Approve Special Event Policy

E. Industrial Center Farm Lease (pages 17-25)

Summary: Contract to lease 98-acre Industrial Center property to Doug Holesinger for the 2016 crop year. Lease is for $27,225.00 ($275.00/acre), which mirrors the 2016 crop year lease price.

Action: Approve farm lease

10. Old Business

11. Reports

Mayor
Administrator (pages 26-28)
Aldermen
Marina Committee Report (page 29)
Martin House Financial Report (pages 30-31)

12. Adjourn

City of Fulton
Regular Council Meeting Minutes
March 21, 2016

Pro Tem Mayor H. VanZuiden called the meeting to order at 5:30 PM and directed the city clerk to call the roll. On roll call Ald. Barbara Mask, Gene Field, Dan Nederhoff, Margaret Crosthwaite, Sue VanKampen, Wes Letcher, and Mike VanZuiden answered, “present.” Mayor Russell arrived late to the meeting. Also in attendance were Ed Cannon (City Administrator), Bill Shirk (City Attorney), Regina Lehman (Tourism & Community Services Director), Dan Clark (Public Works Director), Amanda Fosdick (City Treasurer), Officers Wherry, Hamilton and Flack (Police Officers) and Clink Kettler (Zoning Officer).

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

During the communication from visitors Pro Tem Mayor asked if anyone would like to speak. No one said anything at the time; all were present regarding matter on the agenda. Randy Boonstra was present regarding the budget and old Drives Building. Mike Ottens, Arlene Considine, Trudy Feldt, Chuck Dykstra, Jane Luker, Jeff DenBesten and Kyle Kopf were present regarding the old Drives Building. Nick Moffitt was present on behalf of the Clinton Herald.

First, Pro Tem Mayor H. VanZuiden asked if there were any questions regarding items on the consent agenda. Items on the list include Approval of March 7, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes, Approve Treasurer’s Report, Approve Bill List, Proclamations (May 2016 Motorcycle Awareness Month & April 7, 2016 Junior Achievement Day. Ald. M. VanZuiden asked if the Kozyra funds were being used to remodel entire city hall project? Administrator Cannon replied, “Yes the police department wanted the window and entrance changed.” Ald. Mask wanted to know the Police Department was paying for the entire remodel. Admin. Cannon to look into it more as to why. With no further questions or concerns Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. Crosthwaite to approve the items on the consent agenda. Roll call vote (7 yes).

Second, the next item for consideration is the Municipal Accounting/Utility Billing Software selection. Page 15 in the meeting packet lists the proposals received from different software companies. It was recommended by city employees and Admin. Cannon to keep the current provider and just update modules and add a few new ones to satisfy needs. Ald. Mask asked with the update if a position would be eliminated. Admin. Cannon said, “No, but employees would possibly work less hours and save time to get other tasks completed.” With no further questions or concerns Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. M. VanZuiden to approve the Billing/Software update. Roll call vote (7 yes).

Third, item on the agenda is approve the FY 2017 municipal budget. The budget was included in the meeting packet, during review Admin. Cannon pointed out line 231 on page 7 of 25, this amount could be raised to $3000 to help business owners replace sidewalks. Ald. Mask supported the idea, Director Clark mentioned laws state owner to fix sidewalks themselves, this would mean the ordinance would have to be changed. Admin Cannon said this would only help offset cost not pay for entire fix. With no further questions or concerns Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. VanKampen to approve the tentative budget for public inspection and schedule Public Hearing for Monday, April 4, 2106 at 5:30 PM. Roll call vote (7 yes).

Fourth, item for consideration is Employee Health Insurance. The contract for employee health insurance is due to renew April 1, 2016. The plan includes all non- management employees, even employees in negotiation. With the new plan it would be partial self-funding. Randy Boonstra suggested making an exit strategy if this does not work out as planned, it would say where the reserve funds would go if switched back to normal insurance. With no further questions or concerns Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. VanKampen to approve the Employee Health Insurance Contribution. Roll call vote (7 yes).

Fifth, item for consideration is the Employee Health Insurance Contributions. This recommendation is to change employee and family health insurance contributions to 10% for employees and 25% for families. With no questions or concerns Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. Crosthwaite to approve the employee health insurance contribution policy. Roll call vote (7 yes).

Old Business:
Authorize funds to replace the roof at the Drives building subject to successful $250,000 fund drive and completion of viable business plan. After much discussion it was verbally mentioned the roof repair could not exceed $50,000, 6 months from today must raise $250,000 and a business plan. After much discussion Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. VanKampen to approve Drives building plan. Roll call vote (3 yes, 5 no). Motion failed to be approved.

Mayor’s Report:
Mayor Russell included his written report.

Police Report:
Chief Rhoades included his written report.

Tourism & Community Services Report:
Director Lehman included her written report.

Committee Reports:
Written reports were included from Fulton’s Windmill Cultural Center, Volunteer Millers, Steering Committee, Education Committee, Andresen Cultural Center, and Fulton Historical Society.

Ald. H. VanZuiden motioned, seconded by Ald. Crosthwaite to enter closed session to discuss collective bargaining and personnel. Roll call vote (8 yes). The council entered closed session at 7:25 PM.

Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. Nederhoff to exit closed session. Roll call vote (8 yes). The council exited closed session at 8:34 PM.

The last order of business was to decide on the management salary increase. After discussion between the aldermen they decided on an 3% increase. With no further questions or concerns Ald. Nederhoff motioned, seconded by Ald. Letcher to approve the management salary increase. Roll call vote (8 yes).

With no further business, Ald. Letcher motioned, seconded by Ald. Crosthwaite to adjourn. With voice agreement the meeting adjourned at 8:37 PM.

Minutes recorded by,

Lindsey Renkes
Fulton City Clerk

CITY OF FULTON
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
March 21, 2016
5:30 PM

1. Call to order

2. Roll call

3. Pledge of allegiance

4. Communication from visitors

5. Consent Agenda (All items in the consent agenda will be enacted by a single motion and roll call vote. Any item may be removed upon request by the Mayor or any Alderman and considered individually after all other items of business on the consent agenda).

A. Approval of March 7, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes (pages 1-3)

B. Approve Treasurer’s Report (pages 4-12)

C. Approve Bill List (located at end of packet)

D. Proclamations

1. May 2016 Motorcycle Awareness Month (page 13)

2. April 7, 2016 Junior Achievement Day (page 14)

Action: Motion to approve Consent Agenda

6. Rule on Items Removed from Consent Agenda

7 Items for Consideration:

A. Municipal Accounting/Utility Billing Software selection (page 15)

Summary: See attached Summary

Action: Approve Municipal Software provider

B. FY2017 Tentative Budget (located at end of packet)

Summary: The tentative budget represents the final draft of the FY 2017 municipal budget. If approved, the budget will be posted for public inspection on April 4, 2016, and a Public Hearing scheduled for Monday, April 4, 2015 at 5:30 in the Fulton City Council Chambers.

Action: Approve tentative budget for public inspection and schedule Public Hearing for Monday, April 4, 2016 at 5:30 PM.

C. Employee Health Insurance (pages 16-24)

Summary: See Attached Summary

Action: Vote on city insurance plan

D. Employee Health Insurance Contributions (page 25)

Summary: Recommendation to change employee and family health insurance contributions to 10% for employees and 25% for families.

Action: Vote on employee health insurance contribution policy

8. Old Business

A. Drives Building

Summary: Authorize funds to replace the roof at the Drives building subject to a Successful $250,000 fund drive and completion of a viable business plan for subsequent operation as a City/Historic Society public/private partnership

Action: Vote

Action: Discussion

9. Reports

Mayor (pages 26-27)
Aldermen Reports
Police Report (pages 28-29)
Tourism & Community Services Report (pages 30-33)
Committee Reports (pages 34-53)

11. Executive Session to discuss collective bargaining and personnel

12. Return to Open Session

13. Adjourn