City of Dekalb City Council met Feb. 23.
Here are the minutes provided by the council:
The City Council of the City of DeKalb convened for a Regular Meeting on February 23, 2026, at the DeKalb Public Library, located at 309 Oak Street, DeKalb, Illinois, in the Yusunas Meeting Room.
A. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
Mayor Barnes called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
City Clerk Brad Hoey called the roll. In addition to Mayor Barnes, the following City Council members were present:
▪ Carolyn Zasada, 1st Ward Alderman
▪ Justin Carlson, 4th Ward Alderman
▪ Andre Powell, 5th Ward Alderman
▪ John Walker, 7th Ward Alderman
▪ Mike Verbic, 6th Ward Alderman
The following City Council members were absent:
▪ Barb Larson, 2nd Ward Alderman
▪ Tracy Smith, 3rd Ward Alderman
Mayor Barnes reported that Alderman Smith and Alderman Larson had notified him in advance that they would be unable to attend the meeting.
Also present were:
▪ Bill Nicklas, City Manager
▪ Bob Redel, Assistant City Manager
▪ Matt Rose, City Attorney
▪ Luke Howieson, Fire Chief
▪ David Byrd, Police Chief
▪ Dan Olson, Planning Director
▪ Andy Raih, Public Works Director
▪ John Laskowski, City Engineer
▪ Scott Zak, Communications & Engagement Manager
B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by DeKalb Cub Scout Pack 131.
The Pack invited the City to send a representative to the upcoming Pinewood Derby on March 15, which will include their inaugural Community Showdown race.
C. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
MOTION: Alderman Carlson moved to approve the agenda as presented; seconded by Alderman Verbic.
VOTE: Motion carried by roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Larson, Smith. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
D. PRESENTATIONS
1. America250 Pause for Patriotism: Stories of War and Deliverance.
Mayor Barnes reminded everyone that, in recognition of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, each Council meeting will begin with a “Pause for Patriotism,” during which City Manager Nicklas will present a brief historical reflection related to the Declaration.
City Manager Nicklas added that the series, which began in January, is designed to move through different periods of American history to highlight the enduring meaning of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. He outlined that the presentations would progress from the Declaration’s signing through Lincoln’s era and will conclude around May.
Nicklas then delivered the next installment, focusing on the famous World War II photograph of Marines raising the flag on Iwo Jima. He explained the circumstances of the photo, its morale impact, the strategic importance of the island’s airfields, and the significant casualties suffered. He tied the event to the broader theme of sacrifice in the defense of freedom.
He transitioned to early U.S. naval history, describing how foreign impressment of American sailors led to Congress authorizing the construction of six frigates in 1794. He discussed the development of the early Navy, its effectiveness in combat, and U.S. actions against Mediterranean piracy, including missions by the USS Constitution and Stephen Decatur, which eventually resulted in treaties ending the conflict by 1815.
Nicklas concluded by emphasizing the role of individuals in shaping history and noted that future “Pause for Patriotism” topics will cover the War of 1812 and its long-term impact.
Alderman Walker asked whether the soldiers in the Iwo Jima photograph were known by name. Nicklas identified one as Ira Hayes, a Native American, and acknowledged that one servicemember was misidentified for many years, with the correction made only recently.
2. DeKalb Public Library FY2025 Annual Report.
Executive Director Emily Faulkner opened her FY2025 DeKalb Public Library report by noting the historical roots of public libraries, tracing them back to Benjamin Franklin’s first lending libraries.
She highlighted a strong year in 2025, with major investments in the library’s collection, including more popular titles and the addition of the high demand “Lucky Day” collection. She also emphasized the success of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which has enrolled over 2,000 children and distributed more than 14,500 books.
Faulkner reported that the library hosted over 1,700 programs with more than 30,000 attendees, including major events such as World of Reading and Eight Countries in One Day. She invited the Council to the upcoming World of Reading event on March 14.
Looking ahead to 2026, the library will participate in the nation’s 250th anniversary with themed displays and programming. Other goals include updating the collection development plan, completing a full inventory, continuing PrairieCat consortium resource sharing, and developing a new three-year strategic plan with community input. She also announced the introduction of a new sensory-focused Calm Room for young children.
Faulkner concluded by praising her staff and thanking the community for its strong support. Mayor Barnes thanked her for the report and encouraged her to continue the positive work. E. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
There was none.
F. APPOINTMENTS
Mayor Barnes presented the following appointment by title only:
1. Appointing Alex Tobias to the DeKalb Public Library Board for a Three-Year Term (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2028).
MOTION: Alderman Powell moved to approve the appointment; seconded by Alderman Carlson.
VOTE: Motion carried by roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Larson, Smith. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
G. CONSENT AGENDA
Mayor Barnes presented the Consent Agenda items by title only:
1. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of February 9, 2026.
2. Accounts Payable and Payroll through February 23, 2026, in the Amount of $3,805,505.50.
3. Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Report – January 2026.
4. FY2025 Human Services Funding 4th Quarter and Annual Report.
MOTION: Alderman Verbic moved to approve the items listed on the Consent Agenda; seconded by Alderman Zasada.
VOTE: Motion carried by roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Larson, Smith. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
H. PUBLIC HEARINGS
There were none.
I. CONSIDERATIONS
1. Consideration of a Street Maintenance Schedule for 2026.
City Manager Nicklas briefly revisited the earlier “Pause for Patriotism” segment, noting the bravery reflected in the Iwo Jima flag-raising photograph and quoting Admiral Chester Nimitz’s observation that “uncommon valor was a common virtue.”
He then summarized the 2026 street improvement program. Despite having only about $1.5 million in recurring capital funds each year, the City has invested nearly $20 million in road repairs over the past eight years, including more than $4.5 million last year. The proposed 2026 plan totals approximately $3 million, consistent with the budget adopted in December. The primary project will be W. Hillcrest Drive, with additional neighborhood streets and three alleys included. Nicklas noted that staff continue to refine roadway condition data, and a full update of the City’s Pavement Condition Index (PCI) is expected in October.
Alderman Walker expressed concerns about road deterioration in the Devonaire Farms area due to heavy construction traffic and asked for clarification on how the City evaluates pavement condition. City Engineer Laskowski explained that the City uses the PCI system based on sensor-equipped vehicle assessments rather than visual inspections, producing objective ratings that help prioritize neighborhoods. The most recent full assessment was in 2022, with new data collection scheduled for October.
In follow-up questions, Laskowski clarified temperature requirements for asphalt paving and discussed the impact of freeze–thaw cycles on pavement deterioration. Alderman Carlson noted the shorter paving season in northern states, and Laskowski agreed.
Alderman Verbic praised the City’s proactive approach to street maintenance and requested that bidding alternates be included for areas such as Lucinda Avenue and Annie Glidden Road. Laskowski explained that major corridors are typically funded through DSATS, which covers 80 percent of costs using federal funds. Annie Glidden Road is scheduled through this program for construction in 2028.
Mayor Barnes noted his enthusiasm for upcoming alley repairs and the improvements planned for Hillcrest Drive. He added that residents’ complaints about road conditions have decreased as the City’s investment in repaving has grown.
City Manager Nicklas concluded by stating that final design work will be completed in the next two weeks, with project bidding planned for early April. Updated PCI data in November will guide development of the next five-year road improvement program.
J. RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution 2026-025 Approving the Renewal of the Barracuda Backup Cloud Storage Services from CDW-G through the State of Illinois Joint Purchase Master Contract in an Amount Not to Exceed $36,427.20.
Mayor Barnes introduced the resolution by reading its title only.
MOTION: Alderman Zasada moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Walker.
City Manager Nicklas stated that maintaining a dependable backup system is essential. He explained that the Police Department’s servers store daily operational data onsite and that the City now needs to upgrade its backup equipment to ensure continued security and reliability.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Larson, Smith. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
2. Resolution 2026-026 Authorizing the City Manager to Negotiate and Execute an Agreement for Wholesale Electricity for Water Facilities, the DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport, and Street Lighting in the City of DeKalb.
Mayor Barnes introduced the resolution by reading its title only.
MOTION: Alderman Verbic moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Zasada.
City Manager Nicklas explained that the proposal concerns targeted energy procurement for high-demand City facilities – such as water operations, the airport, and street lighting – not a citywide program. Because these facilities use large amounts of electricity, staff and the City’s energy consultant have been monitoring daily market fluctuations. Current conditions present an opportunity for substantial cost savings, including up to 20% for water operations, 30% for the airport, and 20–25% for street lighting. Nicklas requested authority to secure favorable fixed rates through the City’s energy broker when they appear, noting that optimal timing is rarely aligned with Council meeting schedules.
Alderman Verbic welcomed the potential savings and asked about the process for determining where additional street lighting is needed. Public Works Director Raih explained that about 85% of the City’s lights are owned and maintained by ComEd, meaning the City rents the equipment and pays for electricity. Adding lights requires coordination with ComEd and includes photometric analysis to evaluate lighting needs. Verbic said he would share suggestions from residents and businesses in Ward 6 for further review.
Nicklas added that ComEd has strict placement standards based on neighborhood type, and seasonal changes can affect perceived lighting levels. He noted that decorative lighting installed under older development agreements offers some flexibility but typically carries higher costs unless a homeowners association assists.
Alderman Carlson praised staff for converting most streetlights to energy-efficient LEDs, resulting in lower electricity usage.
Alderman Walker asked for clarification on how residents should report streetlight outages, noting that many assume repairs are handled by the City. Public Works Director Raih explained that while the City fixes outages on its own system within a day or two, ComEd manages the majority of lights and operates on its own repair schedule. Residents are encouraged to report all outages to the City, which will relay ComEd-owned issues and follow up if delays occur.
Alderman Zasada pointed to solar-powered lights installed in Ward 1. Raih confirmed these were part of a grant-funded CDBG project in the Hillcrest area, now maintained by the City. When asked whether similar funding could be used in Ward 6, he said additional grants would be required and that the Knolls neighborhood would not qualify under the previous program’s income-based criteria.
VOTE: Motion carried by roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Larson, Smith. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
3. Resolution 2026-027 Approving the Purchase of LED Light Fixtures from Revere Electric Supply Company in an Amount Not to Exceed $65,299.73, with a Local Share Not to Exceed $6,529.67.
Mayor Barnes introduced the resolution by reading its title only.
MOTION: Alderman Carlson moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Walker.
City Manager Nicklas reported that the City has continued making strong progress in converting high-pressure sodium streetlights to LED fixtures. To date, 797 lights – about 75% of the system – have been upgraded. With approval of the proposed purchase, an additional 208 fixtures would be converted, leaving just 61 remaining, which he expects to complete next year.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Larson, Smith. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
4. Resolution 2026-028 Authorizing the Waiver of Competitive Bidding and Approving the Purchase of Water Meters and Radio Transmitters from Badger Meter Inc. in an Amount Not to Exceed $119,000.
Mayor Barnes introduced the resolution by reading its title only.
MOTION: Alderman Zasada moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Powell.
City Manager Nicklas reminded the Council that it had recently extended the City’s 2025 contract with Badger Meter to cover year-end invoices that typically arrive in January and February. He explained that meter replacement costs have exceeded the long-standing $80,000 annual budget due to increased housing starts and the expanded lead service line replacement program. As contractors entered homes for that work, they identified additional aging meters that also needed replacement.
Nicklas said the new Water Resources Director, Matt Anderson, has reviewed the situation and expects similar needs throughout the year. Anderson recommends increasing the allocation from $80,000 to $119,000, which Nicklas believes will adequately cover the anticipated workload. With the City receiving an IEPA grant to replace a substantial number of lead service lines this year, he said the additional funding is necessary and appropriate.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Larson, Smith. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
5. Resolution 2026-029 Approving the Transportation Improvement Program for Federal Fiscal Years 2027-2031 at DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport.
Mayor Barnes introduced the resolution by reading its title only.
MOTION: Alderman Verbic moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Zasada.
City Manager Nicklas reviewed the annual process for identifying needed airport infrastructure projects, noting that most improvements are funded through the federal Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and require multiple levels of approval. With input from the City’s aviation consultants, two priorities have been identified for the year: rehabilitating the deteriorated pavement on Taxiway A and replacing the airport’s outdated, nonfunctional AWOS weather reporting system. Because the lack of AWOS prevents the airport from providing required weather data to larger aircraft operators, restoring that capability is a high priority. Approval of the resolution would allow the City to move forward with both projects.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Larson, Smith. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
6. Resolution 2026-030 Authorizing an Amendment to the 2020 Annual Action Plan to Reallocate $63,740 in Community Development Block Grant – COVID Funds to Local Service Agencies for Priority Community Needs for the Period January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026.
Mayor Barnes introduced the resolution by reading its title only.
MOTION: Alderman Carlson moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Verbic.
City Manager Nicklas explained that the City must spend its remaining CDBG funds before the end of the fiscal year and staff is recommending allocations to nine local agencies, excluding FLAP (Farmworker & Landscaper Advocacy Project), which is no longer part of the distribution. The proposal designates $47,500 for social service agencies and $16,000 for the owner-occupied home repair program, which has seen growing demand for assistance with roofs, insulation, accessibility improvements, furnaces, and similar needs. He emphasized that staff intend to fully utilize all available funds.
When Alderman Carlson asked whether this funding was in addition to the previously approved $300,000, Nicklas clarified that the earlier amount came from the City’s General Fund, whereas the current request involves federal CDBG dollars, which carry strict usage rules and reporting requirements.
Mayor Barnes asked if removing one agency required any procedural action. Nicklas confirmed that no further steps were needed because the adjustment was made before Council approval.
VOTE: Motion carried by roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Larson, Smith. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
7. Resolution 2026-031 Approving the Replacement of the Windows at Fire Station 3 by Terry Vonderheide Carpentry, Inc. in an Amount Not to Exceed $29,504.37.
Mayor Barnes introduced the resolution by reading its title only.
MOTION: Alderman Zasada moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Walker.
City Manager Nicklas reminded the Council that during last November’s budget discussions, they allocated $100,000 in capital funds each to the Fire and Police Departments. For the Fire Department, a priority project is replacing the failing windows at Fire Station 3, built in 1994. After 32 years, several casement windows no longer operate properly – some have even been nailed shut – reducing ventilation and functionality. The project also includes removing one window and enclosing the wall to create additional gear storage now that the station is fully staffed.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Larson, Smith. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
8. Resolution 2026-032 Approving the Purchase of One 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe Police K9 Package from Miles Chevrolet in an Amount Not to Exceed $57,104.
Mayor Barnes introduced the resolution by reading its title only.
MOTION: Alderman Verbic moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Walker.
City Manager Nicklas explained that the purchase will not affect the General Fund or capital budgets because it will be fully paid for using the state drug forfeiture fund. Recent forfeitures have provided enough money to replace one of the Police Department’s two aging K-9 vehicles, both of which are due for replacement. He noted that the selected SUV model offers the interior space, safety features, and off-road capability needed for K-9 operations. The purchase meets state bidding requirements, and the total cost is $57,104.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Larson, Smith. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
K. ORDINANCES – SECOND READING
There were none.
L. ORDINANCES – FIRST READING
1. Ordinance 2026-009 Amending Chapter 23 “Unified Development Ordinance”, Article 11 “Floodways, Floodplains, Storm Drainage and Erosion Control”.
Mayor Barnes introduced the ordinance by reading its title only.
MOTION: Alderman Powell moved to approve First Reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Walker.
City Manager Nicklas presented the proposed updates, explaining that state agencies periodically issue new standards that must be incorporated into the City’s development codes. Due to a previous staffing gap before City Engineer John Laskowski’s arrival, some floodplain and floodway-related updates were overdue. The revisions, which were first reviewed by the Plan Commission, involve changes to Article 11 of the Unified Development Ordinance.
The most significant update requires air conditioning units in floodplain-permitted homes to be installed at least one foot above the base flood elevation, matching existing foundation height requirements. Other revisions include minor record-keeping changes, updated certification requirements, and correction of typographical errors.
Alderman Zasada thanked Laskowski for his work on the updates and noted his involvement in the University of Illinois Extension’s Watershed Stewardship for Leaders course, where modernizing local policies is strongly emphasized. She expressed appreciation for his efforts in advancing these improvements.
VOTE: Motion carried by roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Larson, Smith. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
MOTION: Alderman Zasada moved to waive Second Reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Powell.
VOTE: Motion carried by roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Larson, Smith. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
M. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
1. Council Member Reports.
Mayor Barnes opened the Council Reports by inviting Alderman Zasada, a Marine veteran, to begin in recognition of the earlier Iwo Jima discussion. Zasada reflected briefly on the importance of the phrase “uncommon valor was a common virtue” and the iconic image of the flag raising, thanked the Mayor for the acknowledgment, and had no further report.
Alderman Walker thanked the veterans sitting on the Council before reporting that he had recently met with City Manager Nicklas and Alderman Verbic to discuss several ward concerns and ways to better support taxpayers. He also noted ongoing conversations with Mayor Barnes about a potential initiative to assist downtown businesses. Walker then revisited comments he made at the February 9 meeting, clarifying that he had misunderstood citizen Sid Kincaid’s remarks about voter turnout in apartment communities compared to single-family neighborhoods. After speaking with Mr. Kincaid to resolve the misunderstanding, he apologized and reaffirmed the City’s commitment to fair and equitable treatment of both tenants and landlords. He also expressed appreciation to Assistant City Manager Redel, City Manager Nicklas, and Mayor Barnes for their strong efforts during recent fire responses.
Alderman Carlson thanked residents who had reached out to him directly, noting that those conversations – especially regarding the data center and the Pilot project – were productive and led to useful collaboration. He also clarified that he does not communicate with bloggers, noting that many inquiries come from places such as Texas or Plano. He stated that he chooses not to engage with those requests, adding, “if you’re a blogger, it’s unlikely that I will respond.” Carlson then reflected on the excitement surrounding recent overtime wins by the U.S. Olympic women’s and men’s hockey teams, observing how sports can rekindle national pride and wishing that historical achievements inspired similar enthusiasm.
Mayor Barnes thanked Alderwoman Zasada for suggesting that the Council adopt a civility pledge, noting that the Illinois Municipal League (IML) provides a strong version that will be presented at the next meeting. He also reported on a recent meeting with Northern Illinois University’s Chief of Staff, Matt Streb, emphasizing that the City’s partnership with the University remains strong and focused on ongoing collaboration and community events. Barnes then summarized discussions from the IML Legislative Affairs Committee following the Governor’s State of the State address, expressing concerns about proposed reductions to the Local Government Distributive Fund and broader impacts on municipal operations and local control. He concluded with an update on the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus Data Center Task Force, noting the diverse perspectives represented and an upcoming tour of the META data center to support education and understanding of data center operations and economic impacts.
2. City Manager Report.
City Manager Nicklas had no report.
N. EXECUTIVE SESSION
Mayor Barnes read the following for the record:
1. Approval to Hold an Executive Session Meeting to Discuss the Purchase or Lease of Real Property as Provided for in 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(5).
MOTION: Alderman Carlson moved to recess for Executive Session; seconded by Alderman Walker.
VOTE: Motion carried by roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Larson, Smith. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed and recessed the Regular meeting at 7:14 p.m.
Following adjournment of the Executive Session, Mayor Barnes opened the Regular meeting to the public at 8:03 p.m.
O. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION: Alderman Zasada moved to adjourn the regular meeting; seconded by Alderman Verbic.
VOTE: Motion carried by voice vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Larson, Smith. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed and adjourned the Regular meeting at 8:14 p.m.
https://www.cityofdekalb.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_02232026-2814
