City Council Meeting Minutes

Public Notice

Due to the Labor Day holiday falling on Monday, September 7, 2015 - the first council meeting of the month will be held on Tuesday, September 8, 2015 at the regular time of 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers, 415 11th Avenue, Fulton, IL.

CITY OF FULTON
Regular City Council Meeting
August 17, 2015
5:30 PM

1. Call to order

2. Roll call

3. Pledge of allegiance

4. Communication from visitors

5. Approve August 3, 2015 Regular Council Meeting minutes (pages 1-2)

6. Approve Bill List (Located at end of packet)

7. Approve Treasurer’s Report (pages 3-9)

8. Items for Consideration

A. Resolution to dedicate and name Third Ward Park (page 10)

Summary: Resolution to dedicate and name the new public park in Fulton’s Third Ward as “Community Park” to commemorate the outpouring of donations and support from the Fulton community. A park dedication ceremony is scheduled for 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, September 12, 2015.

Action: Approve resolution

B. Street Closure Request for Calvary Hill Run

Summary: Jean Roeder is requesting street closures to conduct a run to raise funds on behalf of the Fulton Township for restoration work at the Calvary Cemetery. The run is scheduled in conjunction with the Fulton Fall Festival and will start at 8:00 AM on September 26th.

Action: Approve request

C. Resolution Directing the Sale of Certain Real Estate (pages 11-13)

Summary: Declares the city-owned property at 407 24th Ave as “Surplus” and allows the city to sell the parcel at terms determined by the City Council to be in the best interest of the city, but at no less than 80% of its appraised value.

Action: Approve resolution

D. Request to purchase 2015 Chevrolet Truck for Public Works Department (pages 14-15)

Summary: Requesting to purchase 2015 Chevrolet truck to replace a 1993 truck with 170, 000 miles and is used to check buildings and stations 7 days a week. Money will come from the vehicle replacement fund which Public Works has been paying into for 3 years.

Action: Approve request

E. Request for additional funds to repair the clarifier at the WWTP (page 16)

Summary: Requesting additional funds to repair the clarifier at the WWTP. The gear reduction unit has been replaced but further repairs are needed to get the unit in working condition. Funds will come from the water and sewer reserves.

Action: Approve request

F. Consideration of Lighting Impacts on Neighboring Properties

Summary: Numerous Fulton residents have complained about the impact of exterior lighting from neighboring properties causing a nuisance.

Action: Discussion only

G. Zoning Board of Appeals

Summary: Petition by Carl Conover, 811 12th Avenue, in the City of Fulton, IL - for an additional 6.5 ft. - side yard setback, for the purpose of constructing a garage.

Action: Approve/Deny Request

9. Old Business

10. Reports

Mayor - (page 17)
Administrator - (page 18)
Public Works Director – (page 19-20)
Police Chief – (page 21)
Tourism/Community Center Report (page 22)
Miller Meeting Minutes – (pages 23-24)
Windmill Area Steering Committee Minutes – (pages 25-26)
Tourism Committee Minutes – pages 27-29)
Aldermen Report

11. Adjourn

CITY OF FULTON

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES

AUGUST 3, 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. Barbara Mask, Margaret Crosthwaite, Dan Nederhoff, Sue Van Kampen, Len Janis, Mike Van Zuiden, and Howard Van Zuiden answered “present.” Ald. Gene Field was absent. Also in attendance were Ed Cannon- City Administrator, Bill Shirk- City Attorney, Clink Kettler- Zoning Officer, James Rhoades- Chief of Police, and Regina Lehman- Tourism and Community Services Director.

The pledge of allegiance was recited. Youth Pastor John Kershner 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. With no further discussion Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Howard Van Zuiden to approve the July 20, 2015 Regular Council Meeting minutes. Roll call vote/ 7 yes, 1 absent/ motion carried.

The first item for consideration was a resolution that declares the city-owned property located on 22nd Avenue in the Fulton Industrial Center (former Zajicek property) as “surplus” and allows the City to sell the parcel at terms determined by the City Council to be in the best interest of the city, but at no less than 80% of its appraised value. Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Van Kampen to approve the Resolution Directing the Sale of Certain Real Estate. Roll call vote/ 7 yes, 1 absent/ motion carried.

Second, Administrator Cannon explained a resolution that allocates municipal funds for the 2016 CIP road repaving projects. He discussed the three bids received and stated that the lower bid was Civil Constructors. Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Mike Van Zuiden to approve the Resolution for Maintenance of Streets and Highways. Roll call vote/ 7 yes, 1 absent/ motion carried.

OLD BUSINESS:

Administrator Cannon started off by saying the City of Fulton is not ADA compliant on handicap parking spaces but that it’s okay since the city was grandfathered in after the new standards were set. However, if any changes are made to the downtown then the City will have to become ADA compliant. Administrator Cannon explained several diagrams that pictured one-way and two-way traffic scenarios and the amount of parking spaces available. Ald. Mike Van Zuiden said he is not in favor of one way traffic on 4th Street and that he has not heard any positive feedback about this idea from anyone. He also said he has had several phone calls from citizens in the 4th Ward expressing their displeasure with the concept. Ald. Mike Van Zuiden suggested they have a Public Hearing sooner rather than later because there could be a lot of wasted time and energy put into this project if ultimately the citizens are against it. However, Ald. Mike Van Zuiden did say he thinks the right thing to do would be to add the proper handicap parking spaces to be ADA compliant. Mayor Russell voiced his concern about including 3rd Street when discussing upgrades to Downtown Fulton. Ald. Mask handed out a news article from 1999 when the first one-way was converted to two way traffic. Fourth Street was one way (traveling north to south) from 1952 – 1999. Dick and Bea Farewell, Fulton residents who have lived at 900 N. 4th Street for the past 13 years, think the one-way will be a deterrent to visitors. Mrs. Farewell wanted to know where this idea came from and the why behind it. What is the real benefit of making the change? Ald. Mike Van Zuiden agreed that if this change won’t positively impact our local economy then why make the change. Ald. Howard Van Zuiden said instead of investing all this money on 4th Street why not try to develop and grow the East side of town on Hwy 84? Ald. Mask asked Chief Rhoades what he thought of the one-way from a safety perspective. Chief Rhoades pointed out some of his concerns. Mayor Russell thanked everyone for their input on this topic.

MAYOR’S REPORT:

Mayor Russell included a written report. He briefly recapped the city audit and said overall our city is in good shape compared to other similar communities.

ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT:

Administrator Cannon summarized his written report which included a recap of the city audit, fundraiser results for Trivia Night hosted by a Fulton Forward group, an economic development update, and the downtown banners are ready to be hung. Administrator Cannon also said he will be going to Dubuque a day to meet with their City Administrator to see how they were able to grow and develop their riverfront.

ALDERMAN REPORTS:

Ald. Mask announced that Monday approximately 400 people will be coming to the area from the American Queen. The Drives building has two rooms cleaned up for visitors where Dutch dancers will perform. She also said that Regina and April made goodie bags that have tourist information and coupons to our local businesses to hand out to all the visitors.

Dan Clark, PW Director included a written report which included a map for a bridge along the bike path just south of the Marina. Currently bikes are supposed to dismount from their bike and ride on the highway and then get back on the bike path. The bridge would be much safer for bikers and walkers.

With no further business, Ald. Mike Van Zuiden moved, seconded by Ald. Janis to adjourn. With voice agreement, the meeting adjourned at 6:36 PM.

Minutes recorded by,

Jackie Wilkin
Fulton City Clerk

CITY OF FULTON
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 3, 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. Resolution Directing the Sale of Certain Real Estate (pages 4-6)

Summary: This resolution declares the city-owned property located on 22nd Avenue in the Fulton Industrial Park (former Zajicek property) as “Surplus” and allows the City to sell the parcel at terms determined by the City Council to be in the best interest of the city, but at no less than 80% of its appraised value.

Action: Approve Resolution

B. Resolution for Maintenance of Streets and Highways (pages 7-9)

Summary: This resolution allocates municipal funds for the 2016 CIP road repaving projects. The low bidder was Civil Constructors.

Action: Approve Resolution

7. Old Business

A. 4th Street Traffic Flow and Parking Analysis (pages 10-15)

Summary: Staff report that examines downtown parking (standard and handicap) for both Two-Way and One-Way traffic flow configurations.

Action: Discussion Only

8. Reports

Mayor (page 16)

Administrator (page 17)

Public Works Report (pages18-20)

Aldermen Reports

9. Adjourn

CITY OF FULTON
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
JULY 20, 2015

Ald. Howard Van Zuiden 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, Margaret Crosthwaite, Dan Nederhoff, Sue Van Kampen, Len Janis, Mike Van Zuiden, and Howard Van Zuiden answered “present.” Mayor Russell was absent. Also in attendance were Ed Cannon- City Administrator, Bill Shirk- City Attorney, Dave Bartels- Patrol Officer, Amanda Fosdick- City Treasurer, and Regina Lehman- Tourism and Community Services Director.

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

Ald. Howard Van Zuiden asked if there were any communication from visitors. Randy Schmidt, Fulton resident who lives on 4th Street, said he didn’t support the idea of one-way traffic through downtown. Mr. Schmidt and his wife lived on 4th Street when it was a one-way street a long time ago and hated it. David Dykstra, Fulton resident, says he rides the bus for Self-Help daily which picks up people on 4th Street. Changing the downtown to a one-way would affect the bus route. Ellen Schmidt, Mr. Schmidt’s wife and Fulton resident, said she is also not in favor of the one-way. She said she went downtown at 10:30am, 12:30pm, and 2:30pm one day and each time there were about seven parking spots on 4th Street available so she didn’t agree the change needed to be made due to lack of parking. She was also concerned that traffic heading south will take 5th Street and it will be hard to get onto 14th Ave. Next, Heidi Kolk, downtown business owner and Fulton resident, shared that she wasn’t surveyed and she was not supportive of the change. Ms. Kolk is also a Windmiller and is concerned about the traffic flow from the windmill to downtown. Lastly, Larry Leonard, downtown business owner and Fulton resident, said he also wasn’t surveyed and he didn’t really care if the change was made but he was concerned about added expenses this would place on his business. Mr. Leonard said he would have to install a back door entrance for southbound traffic on 3rd street. He would also need signage and lighting at the back of the building. By making 4th Street one-way it cuts his drive-by clientele in half. He asked that if he has to make all these changes that the city would be lenient on building permits, etc. Ald. Howard Van Zuiden added that about 80% of the people he has spoken to about the one-way are not supportive of the change. He thanked everyone for attending and their input.

Ald. Howard Van Zuiden asked if there were any questions or comments on the last regular meeting minutes. With no further discussion Ald. Janis motioned, seconded by Ald. Field to approve the July 6, 2015 Regular Council Meeting minutes. Roll call vote/ 8 yes/ motion carried.

Next, Ald. Howard Van Zuiden asked if there were any questions on the bill list. There was brief discussion on a couple items and Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Mike Van Zuiden to approve the bill list. Roll call vote/ 8 yes/ motion carried.

Next, Ald. Howard Van Zuiden asked if there were any questions on the Treasurer’s Report. With no further questions, Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Crosthwaite to approve the Treasurer’s Report. Roll call vote/ 8 yes/ motion carried.

The first item for consideration, Ald. Howard Van Zuiden asked Administrator Cannon to explain. Administrator Cannon explained the intergovernmental agreement allows Whiteside County to prosecute all ordinance violations filed by Fulton with the Circuit Court’s office. In exchange Fulton agrees to pay the Circuit Court $75 for each citation filed. Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Crosthwaite to approve the intergovernmental agreement. Roll call vote/ 8 yes/ motion carried.

OLD BUSINESS:

Administrator Cannon reported that Bear Development will not be submitting an application this July for Tax Credit housing. Market analysis does not support Senior Section 42 housing. Bear is asking if the city will expand the development to include families. Ald. Mask asked where we’re at with Brian Fritz from Pioneer Property. Ald. Mike Van Zuiden agreed that he would like to meet with Mr. Fritz again and see what his company has to offer. He expressed that if we wait too long on Bear that we may lose Pioneer. Administrator Cannon said that Pioneer has to go through the same process as Bear so the market analysis will be the same but agreed it’s still worth talking to them again.

ALDERMAN REPORTS:

Ald. Crosthwaite updated the Council on progress at the marina. She said they are working on more signage that shows the gas prices and are purchasing bridge planks for additional floats coming in. They are also putting in a fire pit with donated stones and a bike rack. The boat parade will not happen this year as its getting late in the season to start planning for it. Lastly, the committee discussed taking $1000 and dividing it up to give back to slip renters as a thank you.

Ald. Mask reported that two rooms at the old Drives building are decorated for visitors from the American Queen.

Ald. Mike Van Zuiden voiced his concern about the goal of Fulton Forward. He is concerned that it could create a generational battle. He said there are a lot of changes/improvements being proposed from Fulton Forward and we need to make sure they are being presented in a positive way. Regina Lehman, Tourism and Community Services Director, added that she has been involved in Fulton Forward since last October when it all started and the goal of Fulton Forward is actually to have the community (all ages) work together for positive changes.

MAYOR’S REPORT:

Mayor Russell included a written report.

ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT:

Administrator Cannon summarized his written report which included an update on Section 42 Housing, 4th Street Traffic Study Update, City Hall remodel, and a Bus Turnaround at Heritage Canyon. The remodel would use the former Chamber office as a front desk for the Police Department. Ald. Mask agreed that change would be beneficial and makes sense. The turnaround would be located between Heritage Canyon and the Andresen Nature Center. It would include 22 standard and 2 ADA parking stalls. The estimated cost for this project is $85,000, but is eligible for an OSLED grant from the state of Illinois.

Ald. Van Kampen reported that four other business owners told her that they were not surveyed for the one-way downtown. Also, people in the 3rd Ward have complained that they cannot hear the sirens when there is ominous weather. Administrator Cannon said they would like to have a third siren in the 3rd Ward near Timken Drives.

Regina Lehman, Tourism and Community Services Director, reported the American Queen will be stopping in Fulton in August and September.

With no further business, Ald. Field moved, seconded by Ald. Mask to adjourn. With voice agreement, the meeting adjourned at 6:28 PM.

Minutes recorded by,

Jackie Wilkin
Fulton City Clerk

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

1. Call to order

2. Roll call

3. Pledge of allegiance

4. Communication from visitors

5. Approve July 6, 2015 Regular Council Meeting minutes (pages 1-2)

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

7. Approve Treasurer’s Report (pages 3-10)

8. Items for Consideration

A. Intergovernmental Agreement between Fulton and Whiteside County

Summary: This intergovernmental agreement allows Whiteside County to prosecute all ordinance violations filed by Fulton with the Circuit Court’s office. In exchange Fulton agrees to pay the Circuit Court $75 for each citation filed.

Action: Approve the intergovernmental agreement

9. Old Business

A. Section 42 Housing

Summary: Bear Development will not be submitting an application this July for Tax Credit housing. Market analysis does not support Senior Section 42 housing. Bear is asking if the city will expand the development to include families.

Action: Discussion only

10. Reports

Mayor - (pages 11-13)
Administrator - (pages 14-16)
Chief Rhoades – (page 17)
Tourism/Community Center Report (page 18)
Aldermen Reports

11. Adjourn

CITY OF FULTON
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
JULY 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. Gene Field, Margaret Crosthwaite, Dan Nederhoff, Sue Van Kampen, Len Janis, and Howard Van Zuiden answered “present.” Ald. Barb Mask and Mike Van Zuiden were absent. Also in attendance were Ed Cannon- City Administrator, Bill Shirk- City Attorney and Dan Clark- Public Works Director, Jim Rhoades- Chief of Police, and Casey Simpson- Patrol Officer.

The pledge of allegiance was recited. Youth Pastor John Kershner gave the invocation.

Andrew Meyers, Fulton resident, requested a street closure on the 500th block of 6th Ave for a block party on August 8, 2015. Administrator Cannon told him there is a street closure request form that he can fill out at City Hall.

Administrator Cannon introduced Regina Lehman as the new Tourism and Community Services Director. Ms. Lehman previously worked at J.T. Cullen and has been working in Human Resources for the last 15+ years. She shared her excitement and readiness to start a new career with the City of Fulton.

Mayor Russell asked if there were any questions or comments on the last regular meeting minutes. With no further discussion Ald. Howard Van Zuiden motioned, seconded by Ald. Field to approve the June 15, 2015 Regular Council Meeting minutes. Roll call vote/ 6 yes, 2 absent/ motion carried.

For the first item for consideration, Mayor Russell invited Wendy Ottens to speak on behalf of the Downtown Retail Group associated with the MAPPING group. Ms. Ottens explained the five original goal groups formed during the MAPPING process have merged and there are now three groups which include: Retail and Industrial, Parks, Recreation, & Riverfront, and Tourism. The combination of groups will help reduce the number of meetings people need to attend and prevent overlap of projects. Ms. Ottens explained the number one goal of their committee is to make downtown Fulton more attractive and inviting for residents, tourists, and potential business owners. She briefly explained the banners that have been ordered for the downtown and that the committee is raising funds for this project by having a Trivia Night July 23, 2015 at 7:00 PM at the RFCC. Secondly, Ms. Ottens proposed the idea to the Council to change 4th Street to a one-way traveling north between 13th Avenue and 10th Avenue. She stated that the committee surveyed about 21 business owners in the downtown on the one-way project and about 75% agreed to the change. The number one reason for the change was the one-way would provide additional parking. The second reason being it would be safer. There was brief discussion with the Council about the flow of traffic through the downtown. Administrator Cannon showed the Council a picture of parking spaces at a 30 degree angle on both sides of 4th Street. This change would provide an additional eight spaces and enough handicap spots to be compliant. He said there is money available for this project. Ms. Ottens asked the Council for a motion for the group to keep moving forward with the project. Ald. Janis motioned, seconded by Ald. Van Kampen for the group to keep working on the project and to come back with a definitive parking plan. Roll call vote/ 6 yes, 2 absent/ motion carried. Mayor Russell thanked the committee for their work on this project.

Second, the Fulton Zoning Board of Appeals held a Public Hearing on Thursday, July 2, 2015 at 6:30 PM to rezone city-owned property at the old JT Cullen property and Mr. Joseph Maresca’s property on 16th Avenue from Industry to Business. Chairmen of the Zoning Board of Appeals, Ron Shear, presented that the Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously voted to rezone the property from Industry to Business.

Third, Administrator Cannon said that the Housing Task Force is presenting its recommendation for utilizing the $250,000 Attorney General Mortgage Foreclosure Settlement grant. Their recommendation focuses on a combined buyer assistance and home rehab plan. Mayor Russell asked if the contractor would be local since the realtors being used would be local. Administrator Cannon didn’t know if the City was able to choose the contractor and will check into that. Ald. Nederhoff motioned, seconded by Ald. Janis to approve the task force recommendation. Roll call vote/ 6 yes, 2 absent/ motion carried.

Fourth, the City of Fulton and the Fulton Police Officer union (FOP) have reached a tentative agreement for the 2015 – 2018 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Administrator Cannon briefly reviewed his executive summary outlining the agreement.

Fifth, Fulton Lodging, LLC is refinancing its loan with Community State Bank to First Trust and Saving Bank in Albany, IL. This requires new Intercreditor and Subordination agreements. Ald. Howard Van Zuiden motioned, seconded by Ald. Crosthwaite to approve Intercreditor and Subordination agreements. Roll call vote/ 6 yes, 2 absent/ motion carried.

MAYOR’S REPORT:
Mayor Russell summarized his written report and highlighted a few citizen issues from his report.

ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT:
Administrator Cannon summarized his written report which included a recap of Blessing of the Bikes, an update on the Drives building, and an economic development update.

With no further business, Ald. Howard Van Zuiden moved, seconded by Ald. Crosthwaite to adjourn. With voice agreement, the meeting adjourned at 7:11 PM.

Minutes recorded by,

Jackie Wilkin
Fulton City Clerk

CITY OF FULTON
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
July 6, 2015
5:30 PM

1. Call to order

2. Roll call

3. Pledge of allegiance

4. Communication from visitors

5. Approval of minutes (pages 3 – 5)

6. Items for Consideration

A. One-Way Traffic proposal for 4th Street (pages 6 - 7)

Summary: MAPPING group 1 proposes changing 4th Street to One-Way traveling north between 13th Avenue and 10th Avenue.

Action: Discussion Only

B. Ordinance Authorizing Rezoning of Certain Property Within the City of Fulton Pursuant to the Revised Zoning Ordinance (pages 8 - 10)

Summary: The Fulton Zoning Board of Appeals held a Public Hearing on Thursday, July 2nd at 6:30 to rezone city-owned property at the old JT Cullen property and Mr. Joseph Maresca’s property on 16th Avenue from Industry to Business. The Zoning Board is presenting its recommendation to the City Council for approval. The rezoning is required for Bear Development to build multi-family Section 42 senior housing at the site. Multi-family is an acceptable use in Business zoned districts.

Action: Approve Ordinance

C. Housing Task Force Recommendation (page 11)

Summary: The Housing Task Force is presenting its recommendation for utilizing the $250,000 Attorney General Mortgage Foreclosure Settlement grant. The recommendation focuses on a combined buyer assistance and home rehab plan.

Action: Approve task force recommendation

D. 2015 – 2018 FOP Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) (pages 12 - 61)

Summary: The City of Fulton and the Fulton Police Officer union (FOP) have reached a tentative agreement for the 2015 – 2018 CBA.

Action: Approve Labor Agreement

E. Intercreditor Agreement between Fulton Lodging, LLC, City of Fulton, and First Trust and Savings Bank; and Subordination Agreement between the City of Fulton, and First Trust and Savings Bank (pages 62 – 69)

Summary: Fulton Lodging, LLC is refinancing its loan with Community State Bank to First Trust and Savings Bank in Albany, IL. This requires new Intercreditor and Subordination agreements.

Action: Approve Intercreditor and Subordination agreements

7. Old Business

8. Reports

Mayor (page 70)

Administrator (page 71 - 72)

Aldermen Reports

9. Adjourn

CITY OF FULTON
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
JUNE 15, 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, Len Janis, and Howard Van Zuiden answered “present.” Ald. Mike Van Zuiden was absent. Also in attendance were Ed Cannon- City Administrator, Amanda Fosdick- City Treasurer, Casey Simpson- Patrol Officer, Bill Shirk- City Attorney and Dan Clark- Public Works Director.

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

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 Intern, Erin Wessels, attends Trinity Christian College. With no further discussion Ald. Howard Van Zuiden motioned, seconded by Ald. Janis to approve the June 1, 2015 Regular Council Meeting minutes. Roll call vote/ 7 yes, 1 absent/ motion carried.

Mayor Russell asked if there were any questions on the bill list. After a couple questions and brief discussion, Ald. Field motioned, seconded by Ald. Van Kampen to approve the bill list. Roll call vote/ 7 yes, 1 absent/ motion carried.

Next, Mayor Russell asked the Council to review the Treasurer’s Report. Administrator Cannon pointed out that Fund 73 has money left over from a gift that’s not designated toward anything yet. With no further questions, Ald. Howard Van Zuiden motioned, seconded by Ald. Crosthwaite to approve the Treasurer’s Report. Roll call vote/ 7 yes, 1 absent/ motion carried.

At 5:39 PM Mayor Russell declared the Public Hearing open. Administrator Cannon welcomed Sharon Pepin of Community Funding and Planning Services. Ms. Pepin was hired by the City to help complete the income surveys needed to qualify for a CDAP grant to line city sewers. This public hearing is to allow interested parties an opportunity to express their views on the proposed federal funded CDAP Grant project. Up to $450,000 in grant funds will be used for a sanitary sewer lining project in targeted areas of the city. The lining project is part of the Fulton Capital Improvement Plan, and matching funds will come from 2012C Bond proceeds backed by the ¾% non-home rule sales tax. This Public Hearing is a requirement of the grant program, and is the first of the two Citizen Participation Public Hearings. Ms. Pepin provided a handout describing the project. The Council asked a few questions about the different housing grants available. The Mayor declared the Public Hearing closed at 5:54 PM.

The first item for consideration, Administrator Cannon explained M&J Painting is painting the north bridge and needs access to the area under the eastern approach to the bridge for storing equipment used during the project. The access includes traveling approximately 550’ along the bike path. M&J are also parking their vehicles overnight at the Water Treatment Facility. This lease allows access to these areas and stipulates that they will be responsible for restoring the grassy areas and bike path to original condition should they be damaged. Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Janis to approve the lease. Roll call vote/ 7 yes, 1 absent/ motion carried.

Second, Mayor Russell welcomed Kyle Kopf, Andresen Nature Center Director. Mr. Kopf introduced Sean Ford, an Eagle Scout, who will be working at the Andresen Nature Center on a few projects this summer. The projects include: installing a frontage sign, installing the memorial plaque, and planting barrier trees along the cemetery property line at the Andresen Center. Ald. Crosthwaite motioned, seconded by Ald. Van Kampen to approve the projects at the Andresen Center. Roll call vote/ 7 yes, 1 absent/ motion carried. Mr. Kopf added that they hope to have the projects completed in September.

Third, Mayor Russell said each year Fulton must pass a prevailing wage ordinance for laborers, mechanics, and other workers working on construction of public works for the City of Fulton. This ordinance adopts the Whiteside County prevailing wage guidelines for the City of Fulton. Ald. Crosthwaite motioned, seconded by Ald. Janis to approve the ordinance. Roll call vote/ 7 yes, 1 absent/ motion carried.

Fourth, Mayor Russell summarized the Resolution of Support and Commitment of Local Funds pledges Fulton’s support and commitment to use funds from the Capital Improvement Fund in conjunction with an Illinois CDAP grant for a municipal sewer lining project. Included are engineer’s estimates, timelines, and estimated project budget. Ald. Howard Van Zuiden motioned, seconded by Ald. Mask to approve the resolution. Roll call vote/ 7 yes, 1 absent/ motion carried.

OLD BUSINESS:
A Public Hearing is to be held by the Zoning Board of Appeals on July 2, 2015 at 6:30 PM at City Hall for the purpose of considering a petition to rezone 4 properties from Industry to Business.

MAYOR’S REPORT:
Mayor Russell said the Blessing of the Bikes event went really well. Patrol Officer Simpson agreed that the event was a good experience and had no issues. Mayor Russell responded to an editorial that was published in the Fulton Journal. He stressed that the relationship between the City and the Fulton Chamber of Commerce needs to improve. He defended the gap in staffing right now with the absence of a Tourism/Community Services Director. Administrator Cannon added that if there is a complaint with a city employee he asked it is brought to his attention first instead of airing it in the newspaper.

ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT:
Administrator Cannon summarized his written report.

PW Director Clark reported that Paul Banker painted the RFCC and windmill and that new LED lights are at the Marina. He is getting an estimate on what it would cost to repaint the light posts downtown.

Patrol Officer Simpson reported they are waiting on a new squad car.

ALDERMAN REPORTS:
Ald. Van Kampen said there are eleven abandoned homes in the 3rd Ward. She was in contact with an owner of two of the properties and the property owner said to submit the issues to her and she’ll take care of it. Other property owners have not responded to her yet. Mayor Russell thanked Ald. Van Kampen for taking action on this issue.

Ald. Field was recently added to the Windmill Steering Committee and said he went to the windmill and has a lot to learn!

Ald. Van Kampen said she and Ald. Mask met with Randy Dykstra about the landscaping for the Drives building. The estimate was about $100 over the allotted amount on the project so they’re asking if the city will cover the extra. Mayor Russell and Administrator Cannon agreed the city would cover the overage.

Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Nederhoff to go into closed session to discuss labor negotiations. Roll call vote/ 7 yes, 1 absent/ motion carried. The Council entered closed session at 6:45 PM.

Ald. Mask motioned, seconded by Ald. Nederhoff to exit closed session. Roll call vote/ 7 yes, 1 absent/ motion carried. The Council exited closed session at 7:09 PM.

With no further business, Ald. Crosthwaite moved, seconded by Ald. Howard Van Zuiden to adjourn. With voice agreement, the meeting adjourned at 7:09 PM.

Minutes recorded by,

Jackie Wilkin
Fulton City Clerk

CITY OF FULTON

Regular City Council Meeting

June 15, 2015

5:30 PM

1. Call to order

2. Roll call

3. Pledge of allegiance

4. Communication from visitors

5. Approve June 1, 2015 Regular Council Meeting minutes (pages 1-3)

6. Approve Bill List (End of Packet)

7. Approve Treasurer’s Report (pages 4-11)

8. Open Public Hearing (pages 12-14)

Summary: This public hearing is to allow interested parties an opportunity to express their views on the proposed federal funded CDAP Grant project. Up to $450,000 in grant funds will be used for a sanitary sewer lining project in targeted areas of the city. The lining project is part of the Fulton Capital Improvement Plan, and matching funds will come from 2012C Bond proceeds backed by the ¾% non-home rule sales tax.

9. Close Public Hearing

10. Items for Consideration

A. Lease Agreement (pages 15-16)

Summary: M&J Painting is painting the north bridge and needs access to the area under the eastern approach to the bridge for storing equipment used during the project. The access includes traveling approximately 550’ along the bike path. M&J are also parking their vehicles overnight at the Water Treatment Facility. This lease allows access to these areas and stipulates that they will be responsible for restoring the grassy areas and bike path to original condition should they be damaged.

Action: Approve Lease

B. Andresen Nature Center Sign and Memorial plaque (pages 17-19)

Summary: There is an Eagle Scout project proposal to 1) install a frontage sign, 2) install the memorial plaque, and 3) to plant barrier trees along the cemetery property line at the Andresen Center.

Action: Approve project

C. Prevailing Wage Ordinance (pages 20-31)

Summary: Each year Fulton must pass a prevailing wage ordinance for laborers, mechanics, and other workers working on construction of public works for the City of Fulton. This ordinance adopts the Whiteside County prevailing wage guidelines for the City of Fulton.

Action: Approve Ordinance

D. Resolution of Support and Commitment of Local Funds (pages 32)

Summary: This resolution pledges Fulton’s support and commitment to use funds from the Capital Improvement Fund in conjunction with an Illinois CDAP grant for a municipal sewer lining project. Included are engineer’s estimates, timelines, and estimated project budget.

Action: Approve resolution

9. Old Business (Notice of Public Hearing to be held by Zoning Board of Appeals…..pages 33-34)

10. Reports

Mayor

Administrator - (page 35)

Public Works Report (page 36-37)

Police Report (page 38)

Aldermen Reports

11. Closed Session to discuss Labor Negotiations

12. Return to Open Session

13. Vote on Fulton FOP labor Contract

14. Adjourn