City of Dekalb City Council met Jan. 26.
Here are the minutes provided by the council:
A. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
Mayor Cohen Barnes called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
City Clerk Brad Hoey conducted the roll call. In addition to Mayor Barnes, the following City Council members were present:
▪ Carolyn Zasada, 1st Ward Alderman
▪ Barb Larson, 2nd Ward Alderman
▪ Tracy Smith, 3rd Ward Alderman
▪ Justin Carlson, 4th Ward Alderman
▪ Mike Verbic, 6th Ward Alderman
The following City Council members were absent:
▪ Andre Powell, 5th Ward Alderman
▪ John Walker, 7th Ward Alderman
Mayor Barnes reported that Alderman Powell was unable to attend the meeting due to family matters.
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
▪ Jennifer Yochem, Community Services Coordinator
▪ Scott Zak, Communications & Engagement Manager
▪ Ruth Scott, Recording Secretary
B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Shadow Gentry led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance.
C. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to approve the agenda; seconded by Verbic.
VOTE: The motion carried by a roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Verbic, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Powell, Walker. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
D. PRESENTATIONS
1. America250 Pause for Patriotism: Henry’s Miracle.
Mayor Barnes announced that each Council meeting will feature a brief “Pause for Patriotism” in honor of the 250th anniversary of the United States. This three- to five-minute segment will allow reflection on the nation’s founding principles and encourage participants to share readings or thoughts about patriotism.
City Manager Nicklas welcomed Alexa Hayes, a senior at Northern Illinois University completing her final semester. She is currently interning with the City and exploring a career in public administration, so he invited her to attend the Council meeting for firsthand experience in local government.
Mayor Barnes welcomed Ms. Hayes, noting her strong advocacy and high recommendations. He encouraged her to take full advantage of the opportunity by learning from City Manager Nicklas and others within the City of DeKalb.
City Manager Nicklas reflected on his January 12 presentation about John Hancock, noting that although Hancock aspired to military fame, his most significant role during the Revolution was offering leadership and guidance to the convention.
City Manager Nicklas then shared a brief but compelling story called Henry’s Miracle. After the battles of Lexington and Concord, George Washington took command of the Continental Army in Boston, which was under siege by British forces controlling all land and sea routes. Washington realized that capturing Boston required positioning artillery on Dorchester Heights, the highest point overlooking the harbor. The challenge: America had no heavy weaponry nearby. Fortunately, cannons had been abandoned at Fort Ticonderoga, 300 miles away.
Henry Knox, a 25-year-old Boston bookseller with no military training, devised a daring plan to retrieve them. With about 50 men, sleds, and oxen, Knox transported 58 cannons and mortars – totaling 60 tons – across frozen rivers, mountains, and harsh winter terrain in just 40 days. Despite setbacks, they succeeded, and by late February, the artillery was in place. When British forces saw the fortified Dorchester Heights, they evacuated Boston with 9,000 troops and loyalists, months before the Declaration of Independence was signed.
Knox’s ingenuity earned him command of artillery for the remainder of the war, despite never having fired a cannon before. Nicklas concluded by noting that valor in the Revolution was not limited to white soldiers; dozens of free Black men fought at Lexington and Concord in integrated regiments, a level of integration not seen again until Vietnam.
Mayor Barnes praised City Manager Nicklas, highlighting his Ph.D. in philosophy and history as a reflection of his deep knowledge and passion for the country’s history. He noted that Nicklas’s remarks on patriotism stem from genuine conviction and thanked him for sharing his enthusiasm for the topic.
2. America250 DeKalb Progress Report.
Mayor Barnes introduced Scott Zak, the City’s Communications & Engagement Manager, to share an update on America250 DeKalb, a local initiative marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Barnes praised Zak’s leadership in organizing community efforts, noting that meetings draw about 50 participants from government, nonprofits, and the public. The initiative aims to collaborate on meaningful ways for DeKalb to honor the nation’s founding and pay tribute to the founding fathers.
Zak outlined the vision for America250 DeKalb, emphasizing that the initiative goes beyond fireworks and parades by reconnecting the community with the ideals of the Declaration of Independence and fostering unity. The effort, which began as a City project, quickly expanded into a community-wide collaboration involving 35 organizations, with the first meeting held on September 11 to symbolize unity.
Monthly committee meetings have shifted from brainstorming to action. Planned activities include six months of programs by the DeKalb Public Library, a bike decorating contest by the Rotary Club in May, and DeKalb Township’s pledge to plant 250 trees. The City is supporting these efforts through the America250 DeKalb website, which features an event calendar and a “What Patriotism Means to You” section for residents to share reflections, and its social media pages (Facebook, YouTube, Instagram).
City-led projects include planting red, white, and blue flowers, installing lamppost banners, repurposing holiday lights for patriotic displays, and organizing litter cleanups under the slogan “Clean Up the Town for America250.” Long-term enhancements, such as downtown lighting and a new mural, aim to create lasting reminders of the celebration beyond parades and fireworks.
Alderman Carlson commended Zak for his efforts and encouraged him to continue the good work.
Drawing on City Manager Nicklas’s story about Henry Knox, Mayor Barnes urged the community to keep challenges in perspective, invest in local pride through projects like murals and walkways, and honor the founding fathers’ vision of unity and the pursuit of happiness. He also expressed appreciation for Zak’s leadership in the America250 DeKalb initiative.
E. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
There was none.
F. APPOINTMENTS
Mayor Barnes presented the following appointments by title only.
1. Appointing Laura Anderson and Ann Shult to the DeKalb Public Library Board, Both for a Three-Year Term (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2028).
2. Appointing Scott Sisler to the Planning and Zoning Commission for a Five-Year Term (January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2031).
3. Appointing Courtney Gallaher (Northern Illinois University) and Jose Vazquez (DeKalb County Health Department) as Ex-Officio Members of the Citizens’ Environmental Commission.
4. Reappointing Julie Jesmer and Robert Srygler to the Citizens’ Environmental Commission, Both for a Two-Year Term (January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2028).
MOTION: Alderman Zasada moved to approve the appointments and reappointments; seconded by Alderman Carlson.
VOTE: The motion carried by a roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Verbic, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Powell, Walker. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
Mayor Barnes announced that the second City Council meeting in February will include a discussion on the City’s boards, commissions, and committees – their roles and future plans – along with additional appointments. He encouraged residents interested in local government to consider serving, noting that these positions offer an excellent opportunity to learn how the City operates and engages with important community issues.
G. CONSENT AGENDA
Mayor Barnes presented the Consent Agenda items by title only.
1. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of January 12, 2026.
2. Accounts Payable and Payroll through January 26, 2026, in the Amount of $4,149,028.73.
3. Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Report – December 2025.
MOTION: Alderman Larson moved to approve the items listed on the Consent Agenda; seconded by Alderman Smith.
VOTE: The motion carried by a roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Verbic, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Powell, Walker. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
H. PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Public Hearing for the Community Development Block Grant Five Year Consolidated Plan 2026-2030 and Annual Action Plan (One Year Use of Funds) for Program Year 33 (April 1, 2026, through March 31, 2027).
Mayor Barnes opened the Public Hearing at 6:27 p.m. and read the title into the record.
No members of the public spoke on the item, and Council members had no questions or comments. It was noted that the topic would be addressed in greater detail later in the meeting (see Resolution 2026-010).
Mayor Barnes closed the Public Hearing at 6:27 p.m.
2. Public Hearing for a Proposed Annexation and Development Agreement Regarding Approximately 114 Acres of Property Located at the Southeast Corner of Peace Road and Fairview Drive (ChicagoWest Business Center Region IV – DeKalb Commerce Center).
Mayor Barnes opened the Public Hearing at 6:27 p.m. and read title into the record.
Jeff Krusinski, President and CEO of Krusinski Construction, presented plans for the DeKalb Commerce Center, a 114-acre mixed-use development north of I-88 at Peace Road and Fairview Drive. Unlike previous industrial projects, this site will include hotels, restaurants, retail, and other commercial businesses. Phase one features a Pilot Travel Center on 11 acres with separate truck and auto access for safety. Krusinski requested annexation, rezoning, and a redevelopment agreement for flexibility in attracting tenants, along with two 65-foot signs along I-88 for visibility and wayfinding. Additional parcels are reserved for future commercial uses, aiming to enhance amenities for residents, businesses, and visitors while supporting DeKalb’s economic growth.
No members of the public spoke on the item, and Council members had no questions or comments. It was noted that the topic would be addressed in greater detail later in the meeting (see Ordinance 2026-004, Ordinance 2026-005, and Ordinance 2026-006).
Mayor Barnes closed the Public Hearing at 6:34 p.m.
I. CONSIDERATIONS
There were none.
J. RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution 2026-010 Approving the Community Development Block Grant Five Year Consolidated Plan 2026-2030 and Annual Action Plan (One Year Use of Funds) for Program Year 33 (April 1, 2026, through March 31, 2027).
Mayor Barnes introduced the resolution by reading its title only.
MOTION: Alderman Carlson moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Larson.
City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) item, noting the federal allocation is expected to be about $400,000, similar to prior years. Some funds will carry over due to lengthy approval processes when plans change. The proposed allocation aligns with the City’s five-year and Annual Action Plans, which must be approved before applying for funds. Activities include housing rehabilitation, public services, public facilities (such as accessibility improvements), and program administration, including staff support. All projects must meet HUD objectives. Nicklas recommended approving the general action plan, with specific details to follow once funding is finalized.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: The motion carried by a roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Verbic, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Powell, Walker. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
2. Resolution 2026-011 Authorizing Human Services Funding Agreements in the Amount of $300,000 with Local Service Agencies Covering the Period January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026.
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 Human Services Funding Program, which began in the 1980s after federal revenue sharing ended. Initially funded at $185,000, the program now totals $300,000 following a $50,000 increase approved in December 2025. Funded entirely by local sources, it supports essential services such as nutrition, health, housing, emergency shelter, and care for vulnerable individuals. Demand continues to far outpace available funding – last year, $250,000 in allocations drew $416,000 in requests, and this year’s $300,000 budget attracted approximately $608,000 in applications. A five-member team scores applications based on impact, feasibility, and alignment with City goals, with recommendations finalized by staff and presented to Council. The agenda includes a detailed list of agencies, prior funding, requests, and recommended allocations.
Alderman Larson recognized the substantial time and effort required to review each application and make final determinations, emphasizing that the process is neither quick nor simple. She expressed appreciation to Community Services Coordinator Jennifer Yochem, the five-member review team, City Manager Nicklas, and all others involved for their work in refining the process to its current form.
Mayor Barnes commended the Council and Alderman Verbic for recommending an increase in funding for this program, noting that the need in the community is significant. He expressed appreciation for the additional support, stating that it is meaningful to provide extra assistance to those who need it most.
VOTE: The motion carried by a roll call vote of 5-0-2-1. Ayes: Zasada, Larson, Carlson, Verbic, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Powell, Walker. Abstention: Smith. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
3. Resolution 2026-012 Authorizing the Waiver of Competitive Bidding and an Agreement with Layne Christensen Company for a Repair to Well No. 11 in an Amount Not to Exceed $225,000.
Mayor Barnes introduced the resolution by reading its title only.
MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Zasada.
City Manager Nicklas reported that Well 11, the City’s highest producing well at about two million gallons per day, suffered a motor failure just before Christmas. Persistent electrical issues required calling Layne Christensen, the City’s contracted well service provider. The problem likely involves the submersible motor’s electrical connection, located several hundred feet underground, necessitating removal of the column pipe and motor for repair. Nicklas requested waiving competitive bidding to proceed with Layne Christensen due to their expertise and site familiarity. Funding will come from the water fund, including $100,000 originally allocated for Well 15’s inspection, with any additional costs addressed through a future budget amendment.
Mayor Barnes noted that while the City could technically operate without repairing Well 11, proactive investment in essential utilities demonstrates reliability and builds confidence among developers and organizations, such as Pilot, when choosing DeKalb. He stressed that consistent services – power, sanitation, and water – reflect the City’s commitment to maintaining infrastructure.
VOTE: The motion carried by a roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Verbic, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Powell, Walker. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
4. Resolution 2026-013 Authorizing a Five-Year Retainer Agreement with Crawford, Murphy & Tilly (CMT) and McClure for Consultant Engineering Services at DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport.
Mayor Barnes introduced the resolution by reading its title only.
MOTION: Alderman Carlson moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Zasada.
City Manager Nicklas explained that while DeKalb’s general aviation airport is much smaller than major airports, it is part of the federal aviation system and requires periodic upgrades funded by federal and state grants. To secure these funds, the City relies on specialized consultants. CMT has been a trusted partner under a five-year agreement that has now ended. After reviewing three proposals, the City recommends engaging two firms – CMT and McClure – for future projects. McClure, though new to DeKalb, has extensive experience with general aviation airports in the upper Midwest. These firms will be used as projects and funding opportunities arise to advance the City’s transportation improvement plan.
Mayor Barnes expressed appreciation for the City’s airport and emphasized its importance to the community.
VOTE: The motion carried by a roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Verbic, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Powell, Walker. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
5. Resolution 2026-014 Authorizing an Architectural Improvement Program Economic Incentive for 214 E. Lincoln Highway in the Amount of $6,378.88 (Tom Sherman – Class Six).
Mayor Barnes stated that he would abstain from discussing and voting on this matter due to owning a commercial building within the TIF district. He then introduced the resolution by reading its title only.
MOTION: Alderman Verbic moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Larson.
City Manager Nicklas reported that an emergency repair was required just before the holidays for the walk-in cooler refrigeration system at Class Six, located at 214 E. Lincoln Highway. Due to timing and the need for a paid receipt before presenting the item, the repair was completed prior to Council review. The total cost was approximately $12,800, with the City’s share being $6,378.88 for electrical and HVAC work related to the freezer area. Nicklas confirmed that the expense complies with program requirements and recommended approval.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: The motion carried by a roll call vote of 5-0-2-1. Ayes: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Verbic. Nays: None. Absent: Powell, Walker. Abstention: Barnes. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
6. Resolution 2026-015 Authorizing a Walkway Lighting Installation Agreement with Elisa Boughner for an Amount Not to Exceed $53,400.
Mayor Barnes introduced the resolution by reading its title only.
MOTION: Alderman Carlson moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Smith.
City Manager Nicklas outlined a proposed project funded by the $250,000 America250 allocation. The plan upgrades the pedestrian pass-through between Van Buren Plaza and Lincoln Highway, a popular shortcut, as well as a popular photo spot. The enhancement will feature an artistic installation by local artist Elisa Boughner: 15 suspended aluminum luminarias with intricate laser
cut designs, powder-coated in at least five vibrant colors and hung by cable to create a striking visual display. The total cost of $53,400 covers design, fabrication, coating, delivery, and installation.
Alderman Carlson remarked that he worked on the original pass-through project in 2008 and recalled that future improvements were anticipated at that time. He expressed enthusiasm that, 17 years later, the project is coming full circle and praised its significance as a well-used space, especially during Corn Fest. He stated he looks forward to seeing the completed installation.
Alderman Zasada asked for clarification regarding the source of funding, noting online discussions about the topic.
Mayor Barnes clarified that the funding comes from taxpayer dollars, as it is part of the budget allocated for America250-related projects. City Manager Nicklas added that the funding source is sales tax revenue, not property tax.
Alderman Zasada expressed support for the project and thanked the Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission for helping bring it to fruition.
Mayor Barnes also acknowledged the Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission for their significant contributions to public art projects, including utility box art, murals, and the Paint-a-Plug program. He emphasized the City’s ongoing investment in art and shared his belief that public art fosters community pride and positive connections.
VOTE: The motion carried by a roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Verbic, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Powell, Walker. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
7. Resolution 2026-016 Authorizing a Mural Services Agreement with Kirsten Sandlin for an Amount Not to Exceed $38,500.
Mayor Barnes introduced the resolution by reading its title only.
MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Carlson.
City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of the proposed mural project, which is part of the America250 DeKalb Initiative. The mural will highlight three themes: DeKalb’s connection to the historic Lincoln Highway, Abraham Lincoln, and the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It will replace a deteriorated mural from 2006. The new design includes a Lincoln-inspired quote: “Let us unite as one people throughout this land until we shall once more stand up declaring that all men are created equal.” The project is estimated at $38,500, funded through the America250 budget, with a pending 50-50 matching grant application to the National Endowment for the Arts. If the grant is not awarded, local funds will cover the full cost.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: The motion carried by a roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Verbic, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Powell, Walker. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
K. ORDINANCES – SECOND READING
There were none.
L. ORDINANCES – FIRST READING
Mayor Barnes read the following ordinance titles into the record and noted that they would be considered together in omnibus fashion:
1. Ordinance 2026-004 Authorizing an Annexation and Development Agreement (ChicagoWest Business Center Region IV – DeKalb Commerce Center).
2. Ordinance 2026-005 Approving the Annexation of Approximately 114 Acres Located at the Southeast Corner of Peace Road and Fairview Drive (ChicagoWest Business Center Region IV – DeKalb Commerce Center).
3. Ordinance 2026-006 Approving a Zoning Petition to Rezone Approximately 114 Acres of Property Located at the Southeast Corner of Peace Road and Fairview Drive to the “PD-I” Planned Development Industrial District and Approving a Concept Plan, Preliminary Development Plan, and Final Plat for the Development of an Industrial and Commercial Business Park and a Travel Center Including a Gas Station, Convenience Store, Restaurant, and Packaged Liquor Store (Collectively, the “Travel Center”) (ChicagoWest Business Center Region IV – DeKalb Commerce Center).
MOTION – OMNIBUS CONSIDERATION: Alderman Smith moved to consider the ordinances above in omnibus fashion; seconded by Alderman Zasada.
City Manager Nicklas explained that this topic includes three components: an annexation and development agreement, an annexation ordinance, and a rezoning ordinance. The agreement outlines terms between the developer and the City, and its approval supports the subsequent annexation and rezoning actions. The rezoning request was previously reviewed and unanimously recommended by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Nicklas outlined the development agreement, which includes a concept plan for annexation and a 10-acre Pilot Travel Center with additional space for future commercial uses and stormwater management. The center will provide 58 truck parking spaces to address a longstanding need and reduce safety concerns from trucks parking in undesignated areas. Access will be controlled from Peace Road and Fairview Drive, with signage to manage truck routes. Nicklas emphasized the project’s importance for logistics and economic development, noted Pilot’s strong reputation as a Berkshire Hathaway company, and highlighted its recent award for having the cleanest travel center restrooms in the Upper Midwest. He recommended approval of the agreement, annexation, and rezoning.
Alderman Verbic noted the longstanding need for a travel center in DeKalb and asked Pilot to outline its security plan.
Jack Rymer, Pilot Travel Centers Senior Project Manager – Construction Development, stated that safety is a top priority. The site will be staffed 24/7 and well-lit throughout, including both diesel and auto areas. If issues such as loitering occur, Pilot will engage local law enforcement. He emphasized that well-lit sites and regular parking turnover have proven effective in maintaining security.
Alderman Smith acknowledged the significant need for truck parking in the area, noting that heavy traffic on Fairview Drive near 3M and the Target Distribution Center often results in trucks parking on shoulders to avoid traveling farther west into town. He stated that the proposed travel center will help address this issue and attract drivers for fuel and other services. Smith expressed appreciation to those who brought the project forward.
Alderman Carlson voiced strong support for the project and praised the City’s foresight in improving the Peace Road and Fairview Drive intersection, saying the project would not have worked under the previous design. Carlson highlighted the lack of gas stations between Fairview Drive and Keslinger Road for travelers heading to Elburn, commended Pilot’s competitive fuel pricing, and suggested adding a car wash to serve residents on the south side.
Mayor Barnes expressed strong support for the project, noting he and the City Manager have long discussed the need for a truck stop. He emphasized the benefits of motor fuel and sales tax revenue and highlighted efforts to diversify DeKalb’s tax base beyond residential property taxes by adding data centers, distribution centers, and now a truck stop. Barnes stressed the importance of reducing reliance on any single industry and on homeowners to fund local government operations.
Alderman Larson agreed with previous comments and noted that, unlike some developments such as data centers that primarily generate tax revenue, this project also provides direct services for residents. She stated that this makes the project a “win-win” for the community.
Mayor Barnes welcomed Pilot to DeKalb, highlighting the City’s strong business-friendly environment. He assured direct support if issues arise and expressed confidence in a successful partnership based on Pilot’s positive reputation. He anticipates a smooth relationship from groundbreaking to full operation.
A brief discussion clarified the procedure for handling omnibus items. It was noted that a procedural vote requires both a first and second, followed by an actual vote on that motion. Afterward, a separate motion is needed for the underlying substance.
VOTE – OMNIBUS CONSIDERATION: The motion carried by a roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Verbic, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Powell, Walker. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
MOTION – FIRST READING: Alderman Verbic moved to approve First Reading of the ordinances; seconded by Alderman Smith.
VOTE: The motion carried by a roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Verbic, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Powell, Walker. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
MOTION – WAIVER OF SECOND READING: Alderman Larson moved to waive Second Reading of the ordinances; seconded by Alderman Carlson.
VOTE: The motion carried by a roll call vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Verbic, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Powell, Walker. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
Addressing Mr. Rymer, Mayor Barnes expressed excitement about the opportunity to collaborate.
M. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
1. Council Member Reports.
Referencing the January 24 fire incident, Alderman Smith extended special thanks to the Police, Fire, Public Works, and Transit teams for their efforts. Smith commended everyone for doing an excellent job under challenging conditions, especially on the coldest day of the year.
On behalf of residents of Ward 6, Alderman Verbic expressed gratitude to all City employees who have been working in these harsh conditions, doing everything possible to serve the residents of DeKalb.
Alderman Carlson praised Fire Chief Howieson and all those involved for their effective response to the recent fire. He urged residents to check on neighbors and pets during the extreme cold. Concluding his remarks, Carlson expressed gratitude to Pizza Villa owner John Finn for donating food to warming centers and recognized his strong community support.
Alderman Larson praised the community’s quick and caring response to the recent fire, emphasizing that DeKalb’s strength lies in its people. She expressed gratitude for both city support and residents’ generosity in offering help to those affected.
Noting that her family is participating in Dry January, Alderman Zasada mentioned visiting Class Six offered alcohol-removed wine. Zasada added that she was glad the City could assist Class Six with the issues they faced in December.
Mayor Barnes commended John Finn of Pizza Villa for generously providing pizzas to those in need during the recent cold spell and noted that local organizations reported no unmet needs thanks to strong community support – a testament to DeKalb’s spirit. He expressed heartfelt appreciation for the Police, Fire, and Public Works teams for their dedication in extreme weather, recognized local artists for their creative contributions, and thanked businesses for continuing to invest in DeKalb. Barnes credited the City Council for fostering a positive environment and supporting the City Manager in building a strong team. Concluding his remarks, he stated that DeKalb is entering 2026 on a strong footing and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside the Council.
2. City Manager Report.
City Manager Nicklas briefly introduced Matt Anderson, who will begin serving as the City’s new Water Resources Director on February 2.
N. EXECUTIVE SESSION
There was none.
O. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to adjourn the meeting; seconded by Alderman Carlson.
VOTE: The motion carried by a voice vote of 6-0-2. Ayes: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Verbic, Barnes. Nays: None. Absent: Powell, Walker. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed and adjourned the meeting at 7:25 p.m.
https://www.cityofdekalb.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_01262026-2803
