DeKalb Times

City of Dekalb City Council met Jan. 22.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

The City Council of DeKalb, Illinois, held a Regular meeting on January 22, 2024, 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.

Recording Secretary Ruth Scott called the roll, and the following members of the City Council were present: Alderman Carolyn Zasada, Alderman Barb Larson, Alderman Tracy Smith, Alderman Greg Perkins, Alderman Mike Verbic, Alderman John Walker, and Mayor Cohen Barnes. Alderman Scott McAdams was absent.

Others in attendance included City Manager Bill Nicklas, City Attorney Matt Rose, Police Chief David Byrd, Police Commander Steve Lekkas, and School Resource Officer Allison Remnes.

Sasha Cohen was absent.

B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Shadow Gentry led the Pledge of Allegiance.

C. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA

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

VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

D. PRESENTATIONS

1. Summary Report of the DeKalb School Resource Officer (SRO) Program for the 2023 Fall Term.

Police Chief Byrd and Police Commander Lekkas gave an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. Police Commander Lekkas noted that a vape detector was installed at Huntley Middle School and not at Clinton Rosette Middle School as indicated in the DeKalb SRO Statistics – Fall 2023 Summary Report.

SRO Remnes provided a photo presentation of various school events the SRO program was involved with in 2023.

Referencing the DeKalb SRO Statistics – Fall 2023 report and the decrease in incidents, Alderman Walker asked if the number was lower because of the addition of more SROs. Police Commander Lekkas replied that communication within the schools is good, adding the revised Code of Conduct has helped.

Alderman Walker then asked if more SROs are needed. Police Chief Byrd replied he believes the SRO program is fully staffed at this time but that could change if there’s a spike in violent behavior.

Alderman Perkins stated the direction of the incident numbers is important, adding the relationship between the City and the school district is unique because the school district is contracting the Police Department for their security. He then asked what’s next to ensure the numbers keep going in the right direction and how will the Police Department collaborate to develop a plan to do that. Police Chief Byrd responded that progress is everything, noting he'd like to get to a point where the SROs are protecting students from outside influences. He added that each time there’s an incident, there’s communication between the Police Department and the school district about how they can work better together.

Brief discussion continued between Alderman Perkins and Police Chief Byrd.

Alderman Zasada stated there were two changes at the high school that she felt made an extreme impact on safety, the first being the requirement that everyone must always wear an ID, and the second being limiting access to outside visitors during school day.

Police Commander Lekkas stated the school district has devised a system for students that will exclude them from extracurricular activities due to unacceptable behavior. Police Chief Byrd agreed that the system has been very impactful.

Alderman Zasada asked if a vape detector has been installed at the high school. Police Commander Lekkas replied that Huntley Middle School is being used as a pilot at this time, adding there are plans to expand to Clinton Rosette Middle and DeKalb High School in the future.

Alderman Zasada then asked if there will be a need for additional SROs with the addition of the new elementary school. Police Chief Byrd replied that it will be assessed when the school opens.

Alderman Walker stated that while the Police Department has indicated things are going better, he’s heard from other sources, including students, that they are not, which is why he wants to ensure that the SRO program is fully staffed.

Police Chief Byrd stated that progress is being made and the Police Department is doing everything it can to make the schools safer. He added that at this point they feel there are enough SROs, but another assessment will be made in the future.

Alderman Larson asked if there’s a plan in place should a threat, such as an active shooter incident, occur at any of the schools. Police Chief Byrd replied he’s extremely confident in the plan they have in place.

Police Chief Byrd thanked the SROs for the good work they do with the students and the school district for attending the meeting and supporting the SROs.

Mayor Barnes thanked the school district for their accountability and the progress being made.

E. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

There was none.

F. APPOINTMENTS

Mayor Barnes read the following by title only:

1. Reappointing Julie Jesmer to the Citizens’ Environmental Commission (CEC) for a Two-Year Term through December 31, 2025, and Appointing Her as Chair.

MOTION: Alderman Verbic moved to accept the reappointment of Ms. Jesmer as a member of the CEC and her appointment as Chair of the same; seconded by Alderman Larson.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 voice vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

Mayor Barnes read the following by title only:

2. Reappointing Kate Noreiko and Veronica Origel to the Citizen Police Review Board (CPRB), Each for a Two-Year Term through December 31, 2025.

MOTION: Alderman Zasada moved to approve the reappointments; seconded by Alderman Perkins.

At this point in the meeting, Alderman Walker stated he’d like more time in the future to review information regarding appointments and reappointments.

Mayor Barnes stated it takes a lot of time and energy to find people to volunteer for the City’s boards, commissions and committees (BCCs), adding he welcomes input and recommendations from the Council.

Alderman Verbic stated perhaps information regarding the City’s BCCs, including vacancies, appointments and reappointments, could be circulated to the Council. Mayor Barnes agreed, indicating he receives a report with that information semi-monthly from the Recording Secretary.

Alderman Walker stated the CPRB is important and noted he is a former member. He further stated he doesn’t agree with the reappointments of Ms. Noreiko and Ms. Origel. Alderman Walker then requested that the Council vote on each of the following appointments and reappointments individually.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 5-2-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Barnes. Nay: Verbic, Walker. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

Mayor Barnes commented that a lot of training is involved for members of the CPRB. Brief discussion between Mayor Barnes and Alderman Walker ensued.

Mayor Barnes read the following by title only:

3. Reappointing Tony Chulick to the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners for a Three-Year Term through December 31, 2026.

MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to approve the reappointment of Mr. Chulick; seconded by Alderman Verbic.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 voice vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

Mayor Barnes read the following by title only:

4. Reappointing Brad Hoey and Appointing Al Ferris (Ballee) to the Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission, Each for a Three-Year Term through December 31, 2026.

MOTION: Alderman Perkins moved to accept the reappointment of Mr. Hoey and the appointment of Mr. Ferris (Ballee); seconded by Alderman Zasada.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 voice vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

Mayor Barnes read the following by title only:

5. Reappointing Andre Powell to the Human Relations Commission for a Three-Year Term through December 31, 2026.

MOTION: Alderman Perkins moved to accept the reappointment of Mr. Powell; seconded by Alderman Larson.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 voice vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

G. CONSENT AGENDA

Mayor Barnes read the following Consent Agenda items by title only:

1. Minutes of the Special City Council Meeting of January 4, 2024.

2. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of January 8, 2024.

3. Accounts Payable and Payroll through January 22, 2024, in the Amount of $5,602,652.37.

4. Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Report for November and December 2023.

MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to approve the items listed on the Consent Agenda; seconded by Alderman Zasada.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

H. PUBLIC HEARINGS

1. Public Hearing Regarding the FY2024 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Annual Action Plan.

Mayor Barnes read the above by title only and opened the Public Hearing at 6:50 p.m. No one from the public spoke to this item.

There were no questions or comments from the Council.

Mayor Barnes closed the Public Hearing at 6:50 p.m.

2. Public Hearing Regarding a Proposed Annexation Agreement for Property Located at 11921 Illinois Route 38 (Maercker Properties LLC).

Mayor Barnes read the above by title only and opened the Public Hearing at 6:50 p.m. No one from the public spoke to this item.

There were no questions or comments from the Council.

Mayor Barnes closed the Public Hearing at 6:51 p.m.

I. CONSIDERATIONS

There were none.

J. RESOLUTIONS

1. Resolution 2024-008 Approving the Community Development Block Grant Annual Action Plan (One Year Use of Funds) for Program Year 31 (April 1, 2024, through March 31, 2025).

Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.

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

City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this resolution based on the information provided in the agenda packet.

There were no questions or comments from the Council.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-1-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Abstain: Smith. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

2. Resolution 2024-009 Authorizing Human Services Funding Agreements in the Amount of $225,000 with Local Social Service Agencies Beginning January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2024.

Eric Armstrong, a representative of the DeKalb Area Alano Club, thanked the Council for supporting the organization.

Alderman Perkins thanked Mr. Armstrong for his work with the program.

Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.

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

City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this resolution based on the information provided in the agenda packet.

Alderman Perkins thanked Community Services Coordinator Jennifer Yochem for taking the time to speak with him and answer questions he had regarding this item.

Mayor Barnes thanked the organizations for their work in the community.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-1-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Abstain: Smith. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

3. Resolution 2024-010 Authorizing a Permanent Easement Agreement for Railroad Right-of Way for a Rail Spur and At-Grade Crossing at Crego Road.

Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.

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

City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this resolution based on the information provided in the agenda packet.

There were no questions or comments from the Council.

Mayor Barnes stated the spur will help further economic development.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

4. Resolution 2024-011 Authorizing Agreements for Aviation and Storage Tank Liability Insurance Coverage Effective January 1, 2024, through January 1, 2025, in the Amount of $41,068.

Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.

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

City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this resolution based on the information provided in the agenda packet.

There were no questions or comments from the Council.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

5. Resolution 2024-012 Authorizing the Purchase of a 2024 Kubota M5-091HDC12-1 Utility Tractor with a 7-Foot Mowing Deck from DeKane Equipment Corporation in an Amount Not to Exceed $71,112.57 (Fund 420 / Public Works Department).

Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.

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

City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this resolution based on the information provided in the agenda packet.

There were no questions or comments from the Council.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

6. Resolution 2024-013 Authorizing the Purchase of Two Ford Escapes and Two F350 Pickups with Snowplows through Morrow Brothers Ford to be Utilized in Various Divisions within the City of DeKalb in an Amount Not to Exceed $208,824 (Fund 420).

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 resolution based on the information provided in the agenda packet.

There were no questions or comments from the Council.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

7. Resolution 2024-014 Authorizing the Purchase and Equipping of Two 2023 Ford F-150 Trucks Through Morrow Brothers Ford for the DeKalb Fire Department in an Amount Not to Exceed $120,000 Using Ground Emergency Medical Transportation (GEMT) Funding (Fund 130).

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 resolution based on the information provided in the agenda packet.

There were no questions or comments from the Council.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

8. Resolution 2024-015 Authorizing an Architectural Improvement Program (AIP) Economic Incentive for Martin Garcia, Owner of DeKalb Fresh Market at 304 N. Sixth Street, in the Amount of $25,000.

There was brief discussion regarding the process of deciding which Council member would be Presiding Chair in the Mayor’s absence or when a Mayor must recuse themselves from an item due to a conflict of interest. City Attorney Rose stated in such an instance a Council member would need to make a motion to appoint another Council member as Presiding Chair and another Council member would need to second it.

MOTION: Alderman Zasada moved to appoint Alderman Verbic as Presiding Chair; seconded by Alderman Smith.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

Mayor Barnes explained that he must recuse himself from this item because he owns property within the TIF District. He then left the meeting at 7:12 p.m.

Alderman Verbic stated all Council members should have the opportunity to participate in serving as Presiding Chair.

Alderman Verbic read the resolution by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Zasada.

City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this resolution based on the information provided in the agenda packet.

Both Alderman Zasada and Alderman Smith expressed their appreciation to Mr. Garcia for investing in the community.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-0-1-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Recused: Barnes. Alderman Verbic declared the motion passed.

Mayor Barnes returned to the meeting at 7:16 p.m.

9. Resolution 2024-016 Authorizing an Amendment to the Intergovernmental Agreement with Northern Illinois University for the Coordination of Integrated Transit Services.

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 resolution based on the information provided in the agenda packet.

There were no questions or comments from the Council.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

K. ORDINANCES – SECOND READING

There were none.

L. ORDINANCES – FIRST READING

1. Ordinance 2024-004 Authorizing an Annexation Agreement with Maercker Properties LLC for the Property Located at 11921 Illinois Route 38.

Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Perkins moved to approve First Reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Zasada.

City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this resolution based on the information provided in the agenda packet.

Alderman Larson thanked Mr. Maercker for cleaning up the property.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

MOTION: Alderman Walker moved to waive Second Reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Zasada.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

2. Ordinance 2024-005 Approving the Zoning Petition of Maercker Properties LLC to Rezone Certain Property Located at 11921 Illinois Route 38 to the “PD-I” Planned Development Industrial District to Allow Light Industrial Uses, Including a Plumbing Company, in a Proposed Six Lot Subdivision.

Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Larson moved to approve First Reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Perkins.

City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this resolution based on the information provided in the agenda packet.

There were no questions or comments from the Council.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

MOTION: Alderman Perkins moved to waive Second Reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Zasada.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

3. Ordinance 2024-006 Approving a Special Use Permit to Allow a Retail Tobacco Store at 830- 834 W. Lincoln Highway (Mohammad Majid).

Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Verbic moved to approve First Reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Larson.

City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this resolution based on the information provided in the agenda packet.

Alderman Zasada asked why there’s a need for a special use permit. City Manager Nicklas stated that Chapter 23 “Unified Development Ordinance” (also known as the UDO) of the City’s Municipal Code requires it.

Alderman Walker expressed his concern regarding the number of Retail Tobacco Stores in DeKalb and added that neighbors of the subject business at its present location have conveyed concern regarding disturbances.

Discussion ensued between Alderman Walker and the business owner, Mohammad Majid. Mr. Majid indicated he was unaware of any disturbances at the present location.

Alderman Walker asked Mr. Majid what can be done to ensure there are no future issues. Mr. Majid stated there are always two employees on staff and reiterated that he doesn’t feel there are any issues.

Discussion ensued between Alderman Walker and Mr. Majid.

Mayor Barnes interjected, asking Mr. Majid if he plans to run the best business he can. Mr. Majid agreed he would.

Alderman Walker asked if anyone else has an issue with Retail Tobacco Stores being so close together.

Mayor Barnes recognized Alderman Walker’s concerns regarding Retail Tobacco Stores being close together and stated the topic can brought before Council at a future meeting.

City Attorney Rose added that a condition could be added to the special use request that states the City can revoke the business’ ability to operate if they are found to be operating out of compliance with the City’s rules and regulations.

Alderman Zasada thanked Mr. Majid for investing in the community.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-1-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Barnes. Nay: Walker. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

MOTION: Alderman Larson moved to waive Second Reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Smith.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 6-1-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Barnes. Nay: Walker. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

M. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS

1. Council Member Reports.

Alderman Larson thanked the Public Works Department for the excellent job they did during the recent snowstorm. She also reported that she had attended the grand opening of Crumbl Cookies.

Alderman Larson then addressed the length of time a Council member is allowed to speak during the Reports and Communication portion of Council meetings and stated she thinks guidelines should be set.

Mayor Barnes stated he has no guidance over the length of time a Council member speaks during reports. He stated he will reach out to each Council member individually to discuss.

Alderman Smith thanked the Public Works Department for their work during the snowstorm and encouraged residents to shovel their sidewalks and clear snow away from fire hydrants near their home. He also commended the transit service for doing a great job staying on schedule during the storm.

Referencing Alderman Larson’s comments, Alderman Walker stated he will talk about what he wants, when he wants, and he isn’t concerned about how long it takes.

There was brief discussion between Mayor Barnes and Alderman Walker.

Alderman Verbic commented that past Councils had instituted a five minute limit for individual reports and comments. He also thanked City Manager Nicklas for his immediate attention and deployment of City staff when residents of Ward 6 conveyed they were without water and heat.

Mayor Barnes thanked the Public Works Department for the good work they did during the snowstorm. He then reported on recent meetings and events he’s attended, including an Opportunity DeKalb meeting, the funeral of Donna Seldal, a DeKalb Public Library meeting, a soft opening at the new restaurant on Lincoln Highway, The Flame, a liquor license hearing for CJs

Gaming Bar, and a community meeting concerning migrants.

2. City Manager Report.

City Manager Nicklas had no report.

N. EXECUTIVE SESSION

Mayor Barnes read the following Executive Session exception for the record:

1. Approval to Hold an Executive Session in Order to Discuss Pending Litigation as Provided for in 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(11).

MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to recess for Executive Session; seconded by Alderman Zasada.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed and recessed the meeting at 7:51 p.m.

Following adjournment of the Executive Session, Mayor Barnes opened the meeting to the public at 8:16 p.m.

O. ADJOURNMENT

MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to adjourn the Regular meeting; seconded by Alderman Perkins.

VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 voice vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Verbic, Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Absent: McAdams. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed and adjourned the meeting at 8:16 p.m.

https://www.cityofdekalb.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_01222024-2477