City of Dekalb City Council met Oct. 13.
Here are the minutes provided by the council:
The City of DeKalb City Council convened for a Regular meeting on October 13, 2025, at the DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak Street, DeKalb, Illinois, in the Yusunas Meeting Room.
A. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Cohen Barnes called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
City Clerk Brad Hoey called the roll, and the following members of the City Council were present: First Ward Alderman Carolyn Zasada, Second Ward Alderman Barb Larson, Third Ward Alderman Tracy Smith, Fourth Ward Alderman Justin Carlson, Fifth Ward Alderman Andre Powell, Sixth Ward Alderman Mike Verbic, Seventh Ward Alderman John Walker, and Mayor Cohen Barnes.
Others in attendance included City Manager Bill Nicklas, Assistant City Manager Bob Redel, City Attorney Matt Rose, Acting Fire Chief Luke Howieson, Police Chief David Byrd, Director of Financial Services Susan Hauman, Public Works Director Andy Raih, Planning Director Dan Olson, City Engineer John Laskowski, Transit Manager Mike Neuenkirchen, Communications and Engagement Manager Scott Zak, and Recording Secretary Ruth Scott.
B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Shadow Gentry led the Pledge of Allegiance.
C. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to approve the agenda; seconded by Alderman Verbic.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
Mayor Barnes reminded Council members to speak into the microphone so people watching from home can hear them clearly.
D. PRESENTATIONS
1. Proclamation: Recognizing the Placement of the Historic President John Williston Cook Mansion at 411 College Avenue on the National Register of Historic Places.
Mayor Barnes read the proclamation in its entirety and presented it to the owners of 411 College Avenue. He also noted his appreciation for their efforts in preserving the home and having it recognized as a historic place in DeKalb.
2. Proclamation: Domestic Violence Awareness Month – October 2025.
Mayor Barnes read the proclamation in its entirety and presented it to Safe Passage representatives. He also expressed deep appreciation for those working to end domestic violence, recognizing their dedication and compassion.
E. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Ray Gentilcore urged the City to create a snow removal program for the elderly, noting that other towns offer such services. He emphasized the physical risks and financial limitations seniors face and called on the Council to prioritize their well-being.
F. APPOINTMENTS
There were none.
G. CONSENT AGENDA
Mayor Barnes read the items listed on the Consent Agenda by title only:
1. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of September 22, 2025.
2. Accounts Payable and Payroll through October 13, 2025, in the Amount of $5,714,734.99.
3. Investment and Bank Balance Summary through August 2025.
4. Year-to-Date Revenues and Expenditures through August 2025.
5. Crime Free Housing Bureau Report – September 2025.
MOTION: Alderman Powell moved to approve the items listed on the Consent Agenda; seconded by Alderman Carlson.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
H. PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Public Hearing Regarding the First Amendment to an Annexation Agreement as it Pertains to a Donation of Property for the DeKalb Transit Center.
Mayor Barnes opened the Public Hearing at 6:10 p.m. and read the title above for the record.
No one from the public spoke to this item, nor did the Council have any questions or comments.
City Manager Nicklas stated he would reserve his comments for later in the meeting (reference Ordinance 2025-043).
Mayor Barnes closed the Public Hearing at 6:10 p.m.
I. CONSIDERATIONS
1. Consideration: A Revised Proposal for the Reconfiguration of the Intersection at N. First Street and Sycamore Road.
Mayor Barnes read the title above for the record.
City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. He recapped a January 2025 agenda item involving a contract with WBK Engineering (Resolution 2025-007) to redesign the N. First Street and Sycamore Road intersection. Initial roundabout concepts raised public concern, especially due to potential impact on Clinton Rosette Middle School property. After months of discussion and revisions, the current proposal no longer includes a roundabout and is being presented for Council discussion and direction.
City Manager Nicklas then provided a comprehensive report on the proposed improvements to the intersection. He began by outlining the planned changes, which include maintaining existing property access while enhancing pedestrian safety through shorter crossing distances and the installation of signalized pedestrian crossings equipped with auditory signals and push-button activation. Additionally, the current pole-mounted traffic signals will be replaced with mast arm signals to improve visibility and safety, particularly during inclement weather.
He also discussed a recurring safety issue he refers to as the “Daytona moment,” where drivers in the left lane of N. First Street suddenly encounter merge arrows after crossing Augusta Avenue, often with another vehicle beside them, which creates confusion and risk. The redesign aims to reduce this issue by extending the decision-making distance to approximately 2.5 city blocks, compared to the current half-block. He noted that fully resolving the issue would require widening the road, which is not feasible due to existing properties on both sides.
Concluding his overview, City Manager Nicklas emphasized that while the physical width of the street will remain the same, the proposed changes are intended to enhance safety, clarity, and traffic flow throughout the intersection without requiring major structural changes.
Mayor Barnes inquired whether the state is still covering 90% of the project cost.
City Manager Nicklas confirmed that it is, emphasizing that if the City does nothing, it would be responsible for the full cost. He explained that the Safety Grant was awarded in good faith, reallocating funds from other potential projects, and stressed the importance of moving forward with a solution that is acceptable to the council, the community, and nearby residents.
Alderman Larson suggested adding a dedicated left-turn signal to help manage congestion for northbound traffic on First Street turning onto Augusta Avenue noting that traffic often backs up because drivers avoid the left lane to prevent getting stuck behind turning vehicles.
City Manager Nicklas explained that adding a left-turn signal at Augusta Avenue could conflict with the existing turn lane across the intersection. He noted that current lane markings appear too late, making it hard for drivers to prepare, and suggested clearer guidance should begin south of Oak Street. However, he cautioned that some drivers may still make unsafe lane changes despite improved signage.
City Manager Nicklas then compared the First Street and Augusta Avenue intersection to the more complex and hazardous intersection at E. Lincoln Highway and Fourth Street. He described visibility issues for westbound drivers near the McDonald’s and emphasized that the intersection demands greater driver awareness, making it more challenging than the proposed changes at N. First Street and Augusta Avenue.
Alderman Powell asked about the project timeline and potential traffic disruption.
City Manager Nicklas explained that the project timeline depends on the pace of the design phase. Currently, only conceptual drawings exist, and construction plans will take the rest of the year. The goal is to request bids for the project in spring and begin construction after the school year ends. He noted that reconfiguring the intersection will be the main focus and must be done while keeping traffic moving, which will cause some unavoidable disruption for First Street drivers.
Alderman Verbic raised concerns that the proposed additional northbound lane on First Street could be misused as a passing lane, citing frequent speeding and aggressive driving in the area. He warned that without physical barriers, the new configuration might encourage unsafe behavior.
City Manager Nicklas acknowledged the issue and said the lane would be heavily striped in yellow to discourage misuse, noting that physical barriers could pose their own risks.
Alderman Verbic also asked whether school district property could be used to improve intersection safety. City Manager Nicklas responded that a small portion of Clinton Rosette Middle School’s property may be used to improve the intersection angle, emphasizing that the proposed design, while not perfect, is a safer alternative to the current layout.
Alderman Zasada asked if the new City Engineer has provided input on which of the two proposed plans aligns better with best practices.
City Manager Nicklas then introduced City Engineer John Laskowski, noting he’s only been on the job for a week and is still getting up to speed regarding this topic.
City Engineer Laskowski responded that while he’s not ready to make a firm recommendation, he leans toward the plan presented by City Manager Nicklas due to land constraints. He acknowledged both plans have pros and cons but believes the proposed solution is an improvement over the current situation.
Alderman Smith expressed support for the proposed intersection changes, emphasizing the importance of clear paint markings and signage, especially near the First Street and Lincoln Highway intersection. He also believes drivers will quickly adapt.
City Manager Nicklas agreed, adding that signage will be placed along the road and that police presence will help guide drivers during the transition. He highlighted the need for extra attention during busy times like Northern Illinois University (NIU) move-in week, especially at the First Street and Lincoln Highway intersection, which he believes requires special care due to traffic volume and nearby railroad tracks.
Alderman Carlson pointed out that underground utilities significantly limit design options, making this current plan the most feasible due to existing pipes and ComEd poles. He also referenced similar improvements made on Fourth Street with programmable flashing beacons for school zones, suggesting a similar setup here to enhance safety.
City Manager Nicklas acknowledged Council’s support for the concept and outlined the next steps, which include moving into construction design and presenting more detailed visuals of the intersection. He mentioned that future presentations will involve City Engineer Laskowski and engineers from WBK Engineering.
Mayor Barnes clarified that the Ellwood House is not at risk and confirmed that no homes will be taken through eminent domain as part of the project.
J. RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution 2025-089 Authorizing the Purchase of Three Medium Duty Paratransit Buses Based on the State of Illinois Bid Contract Pricing through Midwest Transit Equipment Inc. in an Amount Not to Exceed $416,181.
Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to approve the resolution; seconded by alderman Larson.
City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. There are currently 20 paratransit vehicles in the transit fleet, most of which are aging. The City has secured federal grant funding to fully cover the replacement of three of the larger vehicles.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
2. Resolution 2025-090 Authorizing the Purchase of One 2025 Chrysler Voyager ADA Accessible Mini-Van Based on the State of Illinois Bid Contract Pricing through Southern Bus & Mobility in an Amount Not to Exceed $71,502.
Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Carlson moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Verbic.
City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. A smaller paratransit minivan, used for trips with fewer passengers (typically fewer than six), is also being recommended for replacement. Like the larger vehicles, it will be fully funded through federal grants with no local funds required.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
3. Resolution 2025-091 Authorizing the Drilling of a Test Well by Prairie State Water Systems Inc. in an Amount Not to Exceed $44,900.
Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Zasada moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Powell.
City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. At the September 22 meeting, the Council approved an agreement with Belvidere Farms to allow a test well on their W. Lincoln Highway property. This resolution authorizes Prairie State Water Systems to drill the test hole. After a competitive bidding process, Prairie State Water Systems submitted the lowest bid at $44,900. If approved, the process will move forward quickly due to time sensitivity and approaching cold weather.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
4. Resolution 2025-092 Authorizing a Grant of Easement to Commonwealth Edison Company Along Barber Greene Road Adjacent to Certain City-Owned Parcels.
Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Carlson moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Larson.
City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. The City owns property north of Barber Green Road, which supports the DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport (DTMA) operations, including equipment that help guide planes along the runway 220 flight path. ComEd plans to extend new power lines through this area, upgrading from two-phase to three-phase power. While the upgrade benefits more than just the DTMA, ComEd requires an easement across City property to proceed.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
5. Resolution 2025-093 Authorizing the Purchase and Installation of a Caterpillar D400GC Diesel Engine Generator at the W. Lincoln Highway Water Treatment Plant from Altorfer Industries Inc. in an Amount Not to Exceed $349,792.
Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Powell moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Carlson.
City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. The proposal is considered a positive development for two main reasons. First, the quote from Altorfer Industries for the emergency power installation came in significantly lower than expected – just under $350,000 compared to an anticipated cost of over $500,000. Second, once installed, the system will boost emergency pumping capacity from 6.7 million to over 9.7 million gallons per day, which aligns with the system’s maximum expected demand. While the system can technically handle up to 12 million gallons per day in extreme situations, such usage would be short-term due to equipment strain. This project marks the culmination of a five-year effort to enhance emergency water system resilience.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
6. Resolution 2025-094 Authorizing Subrecipient Agreements in the Amount of $60,100 with Local Agencies for Community Development Block Grant Program Year 2025 Public Services Funding from April 1, 2025, through March 31, 2026.
Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Zasada moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Verbic.
City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. The City continues to benefit from an annual HUD grant, typically ranging from $380,000 to $450,000. Under HUD guidelines, up to 15% of this funding can be allocated to public services. This year, the City received slightly over $400,000, allowing for just over $60,000 to be distributed among local service agencies. These include the Children’s Learning Center, Elder Care Services, Hope Haven, Safe Passage, and the Voluntary Action Center – organizations that have consistently received support through the CDBG program. Although there were delays in receiving the final grant amount, the City was able to proportionally increase funding to these agencies and recommends approval of the allocations.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Abstain: Smith. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
7. Resolution 2025-095 Approving the Purchase of One 2025 Ford Ranger XL from Brad Manning Ford in an Amount Not to Exceed $37,998.
Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only, noting that the resolution number was listed as 2095-095 instead of 2025-095, thus requiring a modification to correct the record.
MOTION: Alderman Larson moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Powell.
City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. The vehicle purchase followed the standard bidding process. The state bid, typically through Morrow Brothers, came in at $38,863. However, Brad Manning Ford, a local business that usually doesn’t compete due to pricing, had vehicles in stock slightly below that amount. Their bid was $37,997.70, making it the lowest.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
K. ORDINANCES – SECOND READING
There were none.
L. ORDINANCES – FIRST READING
1. Ordinance 2025-043 Authorizing a First Amendment to Annexation Agreement Regarding the Donation of Property for the DeKalb Transit Center.
Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to approve First Reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Zasada.
City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. In 2013, the City Council approved an annexation agreement (Ordinance 2013-014) for the Iron Gate development, located south of Bethany Road down to W. Dresser Road. As part of that agreement, there was a provision for a land donation to provide access from W. Dresser Road into the development. With the transit center project now moving forward, the City has identified the need for three acres from this area to establish that access. The land will also accommodate a bikeway and pedestrian path connecting to the DeKalb County Health Department.
Alderman Verbic questioned whether the project should move forward before funding is fully confirmed.
City Manager Nicklas clarified that the City already controls up to $20 million in funding. However, final plan approval is still required at the federal level due to the use of federal funds. Once that approval is received, the project can proceed to bidding and contractor selection, with contracts eventually returning to the Council for approval.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. 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 an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
2. Ordinance 2025-044 Approving the Final Plat of the DeKalb Gas Resubdivision for 802 S. Fourth Street (Amoco Food Market, Inc.).
Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Carlson moved to approve First Reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Powell.
City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. At the August 11 meeting, the Council approved rezoning at the southeast corner of S. Fourth Street and Taylor Street from “GC” General Commercial to “PD-C” Planned Development Commercial to allow for an Amoco gas station and convenience store. The Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed the plat last week and unanimously recommended approval.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to waive Second Reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Powell.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
M. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
1. Council Member Reports.
Alderman Verbic expressed appreciation to Ward 6 residents for their efforts in keeping storm drains clean as he continues walking the ward. He encouraged everyone to keep up the great work.
Alderman Carlson noted his attendance at the annual DeKalb Corn Classic event, which he described as the best one yet due to great weather and high attendance. He also attended the grand reopening of McCabe’s and expressed excitement about the revival of a longtime local establishment. He credited the Council and community efforts for bringing new life to places that have been dormant for decades.
Alderman Larson praised the NIU Homecoming and Korn Classic events. She also reminded residents to keep leaves out of gutters, noting that even a small amount of rain can cause issues when drains are blocked. She also commented on the busy weekend in the downtown area, noting that it was packed and parking was hard to find, which she described as a great sign of activity and community engagement.
Alderman Smith welcomed City Engineer Laskowski and congratulated Acting Fire Chief Howieson on the new fire truck introduced at the recent fire station open house.
Mayor Barnes also welcomed City Engineer Laskowski, expressing enthusiasm about having him on board and highlighting the value of having a direct, reliable point of contact.
Mayor Barnes then reported on recent meetings and events he’s attended, including attending the Suter Company’s 100th anniversary event and participating in the DeKalb Park District Master Planning Session with City Manager Nicklas.
Mayor Barnes also reminded residents that it’s harvest season and to be cautious and patient while driving behind farm equipment. He also encouraged residents to eat at the new Florentino’s Charhouse, noting that the food they’re serving is outstanding.
Concluding his report, Mayor Barnes celebrated the DeKalb Corn Classic’s increased participation and the success of Taste of DeKalb and praised the Back Alley Market coordinators for a well-attended event.
2. City Manager Report.
City Manager Nicklas welcomed City Engineer Laskowski, noting he will report directly to Public Works Director Andy Raih. He added that together they will lead efforts in street maintenance and address ongoing public infrastructure challenges for DeKalb residents.
He also recognized Kevin Bunge of CES Engineering for his exceptional service since April, providing hands-on support in neighborhoods and industrial areas, noting his consistent presence and problem-solving were greatly appreciated by the City.
N. EXECUTIVE SESSION
1. Approval to Hold an Executive Session Meeting to Discuss Executive Session Minutes as Provided for in 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(21).
Mayor Barnes read the exception by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Larson moved to recess for Executive Session; seconded by Alderman Powell.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed and recessed the Regular meeting at 7:02 p.m.
Following the adjournment of the Executive Session, Mayor Barnes opened the Regular meeting to the public at 7:14 p.m.
O. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to adjourn the Regular meeting; seconded by Alderman Verbic.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 voice vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed and adjourned the Regular meeting at 7:14 p.m.
https://www.cityofdekalb.com/DocumentCenter/View/19922/3-101325-Regular-Minutes
