DeKalb Times

City of Dekalb City Council met Nov. 22.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

The City Council of DeKalb, Illinois held a Regular meeting in the Yusunas Meeting Room of the DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak Street, DeKalb, Illinois.

A. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL

Mayor Barnes called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

City Clerk Sasha Cohen called the roll and the following members of City Council were present: Alderman Carolyn Morris, Alderman Barb Larson, Alderman Greg Perkins, Alderman Scott McAdams, Alderman Tony Faivre, and Mayor Cohen Barnes. Alderman Tracy Smith and Alderman Mike Verbic were absent.

Others in attendance included City Manager Bill Nicklas and City Attorney John Donahue.

B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Mayor Barnes asked Julie Jesmer, a Trash Squirrel team member, as well as a Citizens’ Environmental Commission (CEC) member, to lead the Pledge of Allegiance.

C. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA

MOTION: Alderman Larson moved to approve the agenda; seconded by Alderman Perkins.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-2 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Perkins, McAdams, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Smith, Verbic. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

D. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

Speaking as a public participant, Sasha Cohen stated there should be some sort of recourse for citizens who don’t feel represented by their elected officials and encouraged Council to bring forth a recall ordinance to assist the public in getting their voices heard.

Ryan (last name withheld by request) expressed his opinion regarding what he feels is an oversight by the local news media by not sharing his complaint that he’s being discriminated against by the City of DeKalb, DeKalb County, Northern Illinois University, and other local governmental entities.

E. PRESENTATIONS

1. Trash Squirrels Recognition.

Mayor Barnes recognized the Trash Squirrels organization for their efforts in keeping the community clean by picking up over 6,022 pounds of trash. Julie Jesmer, one of the organizers of the Trash Squirrels, stated their work for the year is complete, with 24 events under their belt for the 2021 season. Efforts will begin again next spring, with hopes to coordinate with sorority and other local groups.

F. APPOINTMENTS

Mayor Barnes read the following appointments in their entirety:

1. Initial Appointment of Justin Carlson to the Citizen Police Review Board for a One-Year Term from January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2022.

2. Initial Appointment of Maurice McDavid to the Citizen Police Review Board for a One-Year Term from January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2022.

3. Initial Appointment of Kate Noreiko to the Citizen Police Review Board for a Two-Year Term from January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2023.

4. Initial Appointment of Veronica Origel to the Citizen Police Review Board for a Two-Year Term from January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2023.

5. Initial Appointment of John Walker to the Citizen Police Review Board for a Two-Year Term from January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2023.

6. Appointment of Dakota Burke of the DeKalb County Health Department as an Ex-Officio Member of the Citizens’ Environmental Commission.

MOTION: Alderman Morris moved to approve the appointments; seconded by Alderman Faivre.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-2 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Perkins, McAdams, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Smith, Verbic. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

G. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES

Mayor Barnes read the title below and asked for a motion to bring the item to the floor for approval. There was no motion offered by Council.

1. Minutes Submitted by the City Clerk

a. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of August 23, 2021.

b. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of September 13, 2021.

c. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of September 27, 2021.

d. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of October 25, 2021.

Mayor Barnes read the title below and asked for a motion to bring the item to the floor.

2. Minutes Submitted by the Executive Assistant

MOTION: Alderman McAdams moved to approve the minutes; seconded by Alderman Morris.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-2 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Perkins, McAdams, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Smith, Verbic. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

For the record, Mayor Barnes then read the following by title only:

a. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of August 23, 2021.

b. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of September 13, 2021.

c. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of September 27, 2021.

d. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of October 25, 2021.

e. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of November 8, 2021.

H. CONSENT AGENDA

Mayor Barnes read the following by title only:

1. Accounts Payable and Payroll through November 22, 2021, in the Amount of $4,622,544.25.

2. Investment and Bank Balance Summary through September 2021.

3. Year-to-Date Revenues and Expenditures through September 2021.

4. Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Report – October 2021.

MOTION: Alderman Faivre moved to approve the Consent Agenda; seconded by Alderman Perkins.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-2 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Perkins, McAdams, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Smith, Verbic. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

I. PUBLIC HEARINGS

Mayor Barnes opened the public hearing at 6:17 p.m., stating the Public Hearing was being held to discuss the Aggregate City Levy, which includes the DeKalb Public Library.

1. Public Hearing: 2021 Annual City and Library Public Levies.

Mark Scott began by stating he thinks the proposed $60-$70 tax rebate on real estate taxes being discussed should be put into a fund to help fix DeKalb’s roads. Mr. Scott then expressed his feelings regarding the library’s proposed 14% tax levy, stating the library has been financially mismanaged for eight to ten years. Continuing, Mr. Scott stated he was opposed to the library’s expansion. However, the expansion happened and when the library couldn’t pay for it, they came to the City for assistance and the City took out a 20-year loan on their behalf. Mr. Scott continued, expressing his disdain for the library’s actions then and now. He further stated that surveys indicate library functions as we know them won’t be needed 25 years from now. Concluding his comments, Mr. Scott stated the library should come off the tax bill and conduct their business with the funding they receive from the state or through donations, or they should be added to the City’s budget.

Ryan (last name withheld by request) provided his opinion regarding what he believes is a lack of City services being provided to citizens from their tax dollars, his belief that Hispanics are being mistreated in DeKalb, including himself, how there should be a forensic audit for City spending, how he believes a license plate reader was placed outside his home so that police could see who’s coming and going, and how he doesn’t feel safe in DeKalb.

At this point in the meeting, Mayor Barnes asked for clarification regarding a time limit for public hearing speakers. City Attorney Donahue stated it has long been the City’s practice to limit comments to three minutes.

Ryan (last name withheld) continued, reiterating his tax dollars are paying for City services he’s not receiving, and how the City needs a forensic audit for how the City is spending its money.

Mark Charvat began his comments by stating there’s no speaking time limit during a public hearing as long as you stay on subject. He then complimented the City for levying a lower tax for the second year in a row. Continuing, Mr. Charvat stated he’s repulsed that Council has been blind to what the library has been doing regarding fiscal matters. He reminded Council that the levy doesn’t have to be passed at this meeting and that they can request that the library board revise their proposed levy.

At this point in the meeting, Mayor Barnes told Mr. Charvat that he has met with library representatives regarding their proposed tax levy, and they have agreed to take a look at it again. Further, Council will be postponing their vote on the levy until further information is received from the library.

Mr. Charvat continued, stating the background information does indicate that Mayor Barnes was going to have a conversation with the library director, Emily Faulkner, regarding the library’s proposed levy and asked what was discovered in that conversation. Mayor Barnes stated it’s still an ongoing conversation.

Mr. Charvat then asked if the library would be coming before Council to explain why they need a 14% increase. He stated while the Census indicates population in DeKalb is down by 9%, the library is still asking for 14.1% more tax dollars, adding they’re the only taxing body levying for more. He reminded Council that they aren’t required to rubberstamp the levy as presented and it needs to be dealt with this year.

Mr. Charvat then spoke regarding DeKalb Township’s multiplier, stating agenda packets from the last few meetings has listed the multiplier as 1.0199 or 1.02 and the revised amount is 1.62. Mayor Barnes corrected Mr. Charvat, stating the multiplier is 1.0162. There was brief discussion between Mayor Barnes and Mr. Charvat regarding the correct multiplier, where Mr. Charvat stated 1.0162 is 1.62%. Continuing, Mr. Charvat stated previously it was 1.02% and the multiplier for everyone is higher than originally thought. Mayor Barnes stated it’s lower. Brief discussion ensued.

Mr. Charvat went on, again stressing that the library is the only taxing body that won’t reduce its rate. Mayor Barnes reiterated that the City is in discussions with the library regarding the matter. Mr. Charvat then referenced emails he received from Ms. Faulkner that claim the library is asking for more money for necessary repairs to the building. Mr. Charvat wondered what repairs could possibly be needed in a new building. Mayor Barnes indicated there’s another portion of the library that’s 100 years old. Mr. Charvat stated it was indicated that the repairs were needed in the new portion of the building. Mr. Charvat continued, stating the most ridiculous response he received from Ms. Faulkner was that more money was needed to address any unexpected issues that may arise in the future.

Concluding his comments, Mr. Charvat stated another issue he has with the library is that although the building was closed for 18 months, there were still employees working while other businesses had to close and/or find ways to cut back.

The next speaker (Amy Ferraro) asked when Council would be voting on the levy. City Manager Nicklas indicated it would be December 13, 2021. Continuing, Ms. Ferraro stated she moved to DeKalb three years ago and she loves the area, however she will have to consider leaving if taxes continue to rise. She further stated that Council needs to hold the library fiscally responsible for their actions. Concluding her comments, Ms. Ferraro stated we need to see what we can do as a community to lower taxes.

Mayor Barnes said a priority of the City of DeKalb is the reduction of the tax rate and putting money back into people’s pockets, which is a conversation that takes place constantly between himself, the City Council, and the City Manager. He also stated the City will be working diligently at having discussions with other taxing bodies to achieve what we all want, which is a reduction in the overall tax rate, affordable housing, and good and dependable services.

Speaking as a citizen, Sasha Cohen stated it should be remembered that the library isn’t a business but a public service organization that exists to provide benefits to residents, however, that doesn’t mean they’re immune from criticism when exceeding their spending or when asking for more money during times when people are struggling. He further stated that the library is run for the betterment of the community, not for a profit.

Continuing, Mr. Cohen stated he’s a new homeowner and when he looks at the direction of taxes in DeKalb, he doesn’t see this city as the place that he would want to purchase another home. With regard to City spending, he stated there always seems to be money to make purchase or pay salaries, but never enough money for the city services that would help citizens. He encouraged Council to take a second look at the budget to see what the priorities are.

Mayor Barnes asked anyone wishing to speak further to make their final comments.

Ryan (last name withheld by request) asked again about a forensic audit on City spending and how that can be accomplished. Mayor Barnes stated to Ryan that his previous comments would give Council “food for thought”.

Stating that the library board is an independent body appointed by the Mayor, Sasha Cohen asked Mayor Barnes if he had a plan for replacing board members with expiring terms, if any, with members more fiscally responsible. Mayor Barnes stated he doesn’t have a plan at this time.

Mark Charvat spoke again about the property tax rate, stating it’s important that citizens know that a property tax rate reduction doesn’t mean a reduction in the dollars paid to each taxing entity.

Mayor Barnes stated just to be clear, the City of DeKalb is putting money back in the wallets of taxpayers.

There were no comments from City Manager Nicklas or the City Council. Mayor Barnes closed the public hearing at 6:49 p.m.

J. CONSIDERATIONS

1. Consideration of the Exemplary Career of Retiring Fire Chief Jeff McMaster.

City Manager Nicklas began by stating there was a ceremony in honor of Fire Chief McMaster at Fire Station #1 on November 19, 2021, which was well attended. City Manager Nicklas expressed how grateful the City was for Fire Chief McMaster’s 26 years of dedication and service (November 27, 1995 – November 27, 2021). Fire Chief McMaster then received a very deserving standing ovation.

K. RESOLUTIONS

1. Resolution 2021-100 Appropriating the Sum of $1,825,000 of Motor Fuel Tax Funds for Maintaining Various Streets and Highways Under the Applicable Provisions of the Illinois Highway Code (Section 22-00000-00-GM) from January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2022.

Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Faivre moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman McAdams.

City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet, stating the City is annually required to enter a resolution and agreement with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) in order to receive our share of motor fuel tax (MFT). We expect to receive approximately $1,825,000 in funding for 2022, which can then be used for road salt, engineering services, electricity for streetlights and traffic signals, and street resurfacing. Approval of this item was recommended.

There was no discussion among Council.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-2 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Perkins, McAdams, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Smith, Verbic. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

2. Resolution 2021-101 Authorizing a Supplemental Professional Services Agreement with Engineering Enterprises, Inc. (EEI) for Engineering Design of Lincoln Highway Lane Reconfiguration in an Additional Amount Not to Exceed $32,066.

Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.

MOTION: Alderman McAdams moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Faivre.

City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet, stating this project, which has been ongoing for approximately two years, will turn Lincoln Highway (from First Street to Fourth Street at the Union Pacific (UP) railroad tracks) from a four-lane highway to three lanes with a center turn lane. He added not only will this help reduce speeding vehicles, but also provide businesses in that area more sidewalk space for sales and local events. A bikeway lane will also be placed on Grove Street, which is parallel with Lincoln Highway. Recently, IDOT has raised issues with the project concerning the railroad tracks at Fourth Street, stating further review was needed, which would delay the project 16 to 18 months. Therefore, this supplemental agreement will allow EEI to redraft plans to meet IDOT’s permitting cycle.

There was no discussion among Council.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-2 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Perkins, McAdams, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Smith, Verbic. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

City Manager thanked City Engineer Zac Gill for his earnest and continual work to help make this project succeed.

Mayor Barnes commented that for the short time he’s been Mayor, many City staff have been accommodating and easy to work with, including Mr. Gill.

3. Resolution 2021-102 Authorizing the Waiver of Competitive Bidding and Award of a Contract to Stryker Powered System and Stair Chairs in an Amount Not to Exceed $350,000.

Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Larson moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Perkins.

City Manager Nicklas began his overview by thanking Fire Chief McMaster, Deputy Fire Chief Mike Thomas, and Local 1236 for their assistance in finding replacement for pricey but necessary new cots, stair chairs and power lifts, not only to protect the backs of firefighters but also for be for the benefit of patients loaded in and out of the ambulances. The current equipment has reached the age where it cannot be repaired due to the lack of replacement parts.

City Manager Nicklas continued, stating alternative vendors were reviewed; however, Stryker provided the best price. Further, the stated the purchase price won’t have to be paid until 2022. Council’s approval is recommended now to avoid sizable price increases that will occur as of January 1, 2022. Council approval was recommended.

There was no discussion among Council.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-2 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Perkins, McAdams, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Smith, Verbic. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

L. ORDINANCES – SECOND READING

1. Ordinance 2021-044 Authorizing the 2021 Levy and 2022 Collection of Taxes in and for the Corporate and Municipal Purposes and Special Service Areas of the City of DeKalb for Fiscal Year 2022.

Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Faivre moved to approve the ordinance; seconded by Alderman McAdams.

City Manager Nicklas stated that he and Mayor Barnes recently met with the library to discuss their proposed tax levy and are confident there will be some change. Therefore, it’s recommended that this item be tabled at this meeting to allow the library to make adjustments.

City Manager Nicklas also stated that he will be requesting the tabling of Ordinance 2021-045 as well, for the same reason.

MOTION: Alderman Faivre moved to table this ordinance until the next meeting of City Council, which will be December 13, 2021; seconded by Alderman Perkins.

There was no discussion among Council.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-2 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Perkins, McAdams, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Smith, Verbic. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

2. Ordinance 2021-045 Abating the 2021 Tax Levy for the Debt Service of the General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds of the City of DeKalb.

Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only and asked for a motion to bring this item to the floor.

MOTION: Alderman Larson moved to bring the item to the floor; seconded by Alderman McAdams.

Based on City Manager Nicklas’ comments during discussion of the Ordinance 2021-044, Mayor Barnes asked for a motion to table this item until the next City Council meeting of December 13, 2021.

MOTION: Alderman Morris moved to table this item to December 13, 2021; seconded by Alderman Faivre.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-2 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Perkins, McAdams, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Smith, Verbic. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed. City Manager Nicklas stated it’s important that all local taxing bodies, including the City, take into consideration what citizens are actually paying in the way of taxes on an annual basis.

Mayor Barnes stated there will be an increased EAV (Equalized Assessed Value) in the future with Facebook and Project Barb and added this is an opportunity for taxing bodies in the community to show leadership in order to continue to drive down the overall tax rate in the city of DeKalb.

M. ORDINANCES – FIRST READING

1. Ordinance 2021-047 Approving a Plat of Vacation for Northland Plaza Resubdivision No. 3 (B33 Northland Plaza, LLC).

Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Faivre moved to approve the ordinance on first reading; seconded by Alderman Larson.

City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet, stating the owner of the development is requesting vacation of a 7-foot by 106- foot portion of the easement that partially goes under the building. The request reflects a concern by TJ Maxx regarding their lease and use of the building interior. There are no utilities in the portion of the easement that would be vacated. The applicant has contacted all the utilities involved and received releases from the City (water), the Kishwaukee Water Reclamation District (KWRD) (sanitary sewer) Comcast, MetroNet, Frontier, and AT&T, and is currently in the process of obtaining approvals from Nicor and Commonwealth Edison. The Planning and Zoning Commission (PZC) has recommended approval of the request subject to all utility company releases being obtained prior to the recording of the plat. Approval of this item was recommended.

There was no discussion among Council.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-2 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Perkins, McAdams, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Smith, Verbic. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

MOTION: Alderman McAdams moved to waive second reading of the ordinance and approve; seconded by Alderman Morris.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-2 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Perkins, McAdams, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Smith, Verbic. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

2. Ordinance 2021-048 Approving a Special Use Permit for a Self-Service Storage Facility with Interior Unit Access to be Located at 1700 Sycamore Road (DeKalb – Harlem, LLC).

Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Faivre moved to approve first reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Larson.

City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet, stating the PZC considered this request on November 15, 2021. The petitioner has been in control of the DeKalb Shopping Center for some time, once known as the Eagle Shopping Center. The space is about 20,000 square feet and hasn’t been leased since 2015. Therefore, the owners of the property are requesting placement of an interior, climate controlled secure self-storage facility, which has been done successfully in other communities and often times brings in regular traffic.

Continuing, City Manager Nicklas stated parking at the property is more than adequate and all other requirements are met in terms of utilities. Support of the PZC’s recommendation was requested.

Alderman Larson stated she thinks it’s a great idea but there are concerns regarding large amounts of trash that may be left behind when renters of the units vacate the unit.

Mark Robinson, Chief Operating Officer of First Midwest Group, replied that quarterly checks will be completed to see what’s been left behind by those not renewing their lease. Some items will be thrown away and some items will be auctioned off.

Along with Bob Tumminaro, also of First Midwest Group, Mr. Robinson stated a similar successful project was completed on a large piece of property in Rockford, which inspired additional development.

Mayor Barnes stated it’s top of mind right now to ensure litter and trash will be maintained and the property kept clean.

Alderman Faivre offered thanks for taking care of the property and continuing to invest in DeKalb.

Mayor Barnes said he hopes DeKalb has been a good partner during this process, with Mr. Robinson stated it has.

There was no further discussion among Council.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-2 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Perkins, McAdams, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Smith, Verbic. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

MOTION: Alderman Perkins moved to waive second reading of the ordinance and approve; seconded by Alderman Morris.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-2 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Perkins, McAdams, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Smith, Verbic. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

3. Ordinance 2021-049 Amending Chapter 2 “City Council”, Section 2.12 “Rules of Order and Procedure”, and Chapter 3 “City Administration”, Section 3.14 “City Clerk”, as it Pertains to the Appointment of a Recording Secretary to the City Council.

Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Larson moved to approve first reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman McAdams.

Ryan (last name withheld by request) provided his opinion regarding the appointment of the Executive Assistant to this role, stating Ruth Scott is one of the people in the City Manager’s Office he’s been complaining about. He then stated that approving this item would take away powers from the clerk.

Continuing, Ryan then spoke to the previous item, stating self-storage units are geared to long term users and take advantage of low-income people.

At this point, Mayor Barnes asked Ryan to stay on topic, in which Ryan stated he’s concerned with the appointment at hand. He stated again that the City is being discriminatory by not responding to his complaints of mistreatment. He claimed the City is in partnership with the local media, which is why the media isn’t following up with his complaints. He hopes for, and demands, some sort of official redress.

Speaking as a public participant, Sasha Cohen stated the ordinance change isn’t necessary at this time since Ms. Scott was already appointed as recording secretary to City Council. He stated the issues and complaints regarding meeting minutes and how he has kept them has already been raised and noted they were reasonable. He then mentioned the possibility of a recall ordinance. Mr. Cohen continued, stating he sees no reason to make this a permanent change when Council has already successfully circumvented the issue by appointing Ms. Scott to perform as their recording secretary and he believes they’re satisfied with her performance. Further, there’s no reason to change the status quo regarding the enumerated duties of the City Clerk and the Executive Assistant. He then politely requested that Council not pass this ordinance change.

City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet, stating that Council supported the recommendation to appoint Executive Assistant Scott as its recording secretary at their last regular meeting. This was intended to ensure that minutes of the Council’s proceedings in regular, executive, and special sessions would be professionally completed and submitted in a timely fashion. In response to their recommendation, this amendment is presented for their approval.

Continuing, City Manager Nicklas stated that the change proposed to Chapter 3 does not revise the enumerated City Clerk duties that were established in October of 2019, but it does change the enumerated duties for the Executive Assistant, which are noted in red in the background information provided for this item so there’s no doubt about what’s being proposed. He then recommended approval of this item on first reading with a waiver of second reading.

Alderman Morris stated she was originally in favor of this item but wonders at this point how necessary it is and if it isn’t redundant. She then asked for clarification as to the necessity. City Manager Nicklas replied that all we’ve had is an acting situation where Council has informally asked the Executive Assistant to prepare minutes that are confidently and professionally completed. This item establishes that duty and expectation in the City code. He noted that the Executive Assistant is a professional employee of the City of DeKalb and if Council were to ask any other employee, he assumes they’d want to enumerate what’s to be done, adding this is for the public’s knowledge and the employee’s expectations to be understood.

Referring to comments from Council’s last meeting, Alderman Faivre stated Council now has the August 23rd meeting minutes, which weren’t available at the last meeting and if they hadn’t brought forth the consideration, those minutes may not have been available at this meeting. Further, he would ask anybody to review the two sets of minutes provided, make the comparison, and ask yourself two years from today which one of those sets of meeting minutes are going to explain what happened tonight.

There was no further comments or questions from Council.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-2 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Perkins, McAdams, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Smith, Verbic. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

MOTION: Alderman McAdams moved to waive second reading of the ordinance and approve; seconded by Alderman Faivre.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-2 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Perkins, McAdams, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Smith, Verbic. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

4. Ordinance 2021-050 Amending Chapter 51 “Traffic”, Schedule C “Parking Prohibited”, and Schedule I “Snow Emergency Routes”, as it Pertains to Establishing Snow Route Designation and School Zone Set-Backs on Barb Boulevard.

Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.

MOTION: Alderman McAdams moved to approve first reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Faivre.

City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet, reminding Council of the changes made to parking on Barb Boulevard in the spring to make parking better for not only the residents of the area but also for those attending events at the middle school, and using the athletic fields. He then recommended approval of first reading and the waiver of second reading.

Alderman McAdams thanked City Engineer Gill for his assistance with this issue, noting residents of Barb Boulevard are happy with the changes

There was no further comments or questions from Council.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-2 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Perkins, McAdams, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Smith, Verbic. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

MOTION: Alderman McAdams moved to waive second reading of the ordinance and approve; seconded by Alderman Perkins.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-2 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Perkins, McAdams, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Smith, Verbic. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

N. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS

1. Council Member Reports.

Referencing comments made by Ms. Jesmer of Trash Squirrels at the top of the meeting, Alderman Faivre recommended bringing two bags along when walking your dog – one bag for dog waste and one for trash. He also recommended that residents with hoses on their homes remove them before they freeze and burst a water line.

Alderman Larson thanked Fire Chief McMaster for his great work and devotion and the giving of his family time to keep DeKalb safe. She added he will be missed.

Alderman Morris reported that her younger children have been vaccinated (against COVID), noting it wasn’t as easy as getting her older children vaccinated, but it’s important for all to work towards that for everyone’s safety, and so at school they can move towards not having children wear masks anymore.

Stating it’s been a busy couple of weeks, Mayor Barnes offered the following report:

▪ He met with the DeKalb Area Renters Association board with great conversation where property taxes were a component. He noted it was good to get more educated on the real estate market in our community, adding there was also conversation regarding affordable housing.

▪ He and City Manager Nicklas met with the Opportunity DeKalb board, formerly known as the Annie Glidden North neighborhood group. There was great conversation regarding steps, involvement, and priorities. He noted it was good to see interest from the community.

▪ He and City Manager Nicklas also met with Dekalb Public Library Director Faulkner and library board members. It was a good conversation, and he looks forward to continuing conversations.

▪ He attended a Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission (CCEC) meeting recently, noting it was awesome and they are a great group of people, dedicated to enhancing the community. He thanked City Engineer Gill for attending the meeting and offering options for the CCEC to consider.

▪ He was at a Huskie Alumni Watch party for a championship game, noting it was not only fun but good to see so many community members present, as well as Northern Illinois University (NIU) alumni. He stated it was also good to see alumni reconnect with DeKalb.

▪ He attended Fire Chief McMaster’s retirement party with Alderman Larson and Alderman McAdams. It was a great to see the support from his fellow firefighters. He then thanked Fire Chief McMaster for his service to the community.

▪ Lastly, he stated that Keg & Kernel should be opening next week in the downtown area and encouraged everyone to come out and support the business. He also noted that they should be starting brewing operations after the first of the year.

2. City Manager Report.

City Manager Nicklas had no report.

O. EXECUTIVE SESSION

Mayor Barnes read the following Executive Session exemption titles in their: Approval to Hold an Executive Session in Order to Discuss:

1. The Purchase or Lease of Real Property as Provided for in 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(5). 2. Executive Session Minutes as Provided for in 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(21).

MOTION: Alderman Faivre moved to recess for Executive Session; seconded by Alderman Morris.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-2 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Perkins, McAdams, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Smith, Verbic. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed and recessed the meeting at 7:37 p.m.

Mayor Barnes closed the meeting to the public at 7:43 p.m.

Following adjournment of the Executive Session, Mayor Barnes opened the meeting to the public at 8:02 p.m.

P. ADJOURNMENT

MOTION: Alderman Faivre moved to adjourn the Regular meeting; seconded by Alderman Morris.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-2 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Perkins, McAdams, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: Smith, Verbic. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed and adjourned the meeting at 8:03 p.m.

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