DeKalb Times

City of Dekalb City Council met Sept. 22.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

The City of DeKalb City Council convened for a Regular meeting on September 22, 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, Deputy Police Chief Jason Leverton, Director of Financial Services Susan Hauman, Public Works Director Andy Raih, Planning Director Dan Olson, Community Services Coordinator Jennifer Yochem, 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 TO AMEND THE AGENDA: Alderman Zasada moved to amend the agenda to add the reconsideration of Ordinance 2025-039, “Authorizing an Annexation and Development Agreement with Donato Solar for Property Located Along the West Side of Peace Road Between Greenwood Acres Drive and Challenger Drive for a Solar Energy System (Solar Field) and Two Data Storage Buildings (Donato Solar)”, which was voted down at the September 8, 2025, City Council meeting. Alderman Zasada noted that the intent would be to table the matter until the applicant can meet with residents of the enclave and return to a future Council meeting for consideration. Alderman Larson seconded the motion.

City Attorney Rose clarified that this motion is to amend the agenda, and if it passes, then a motion to reconsider the specific item can be made. After that, a motion to table the item can follow, if desired.

VOTE: The motion to amend the agenda tied by a 4-4 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Carlson, *Barnes. Nay: Smith, Powell, Verbic, Walker.

*Prior to casting his vote, Mayor Barnes asked City Attorney Rose for additional clarification. City Attorney Rose explained that the current vote is on a motion to amend the agenda. With three in favor and four against, Mayor Barnes’ vote would create a tie, which would allow the motion to pass. After that, a motion to reconsider the item would follow.

Mayor Barnes stated he supports the project, making the vote 4-4 and allowing the agenda amendment to move forward.

City Attorney Rose noted that the motion to amend the agenda had passed, adding that the next step would be a motion to reconsider the ordinance. He also noted that the motion is not a vote on the ordinance itself, but simply on whether to bring it back for reconsideration. He further noted that only a Council member who voted on the prevailing side of the original vote at the September 8, 2025, City Council meeting can make this motion.

Mayor Barnes asked about Alderwoman Larson’s role, since she wasn’t present for the original vote.

City Attorney Rose responded that she can second the motion but cannot make it.

MOTION TO RECONSIDER ORDINANCE 2025-039: Alderman Zasada moved to reconsider Ordinance 2025-039; seconded by Alderman Larson.

VOTE: The motion to reconsider Ordinance 2025-039 tied by a 4-4 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Carlson, Barnes. Nay: Smith, Powell, Verbic, Walker.

MOTION TO TABLE DISCUSSION REGARDING ORDINANCE 2025-039: Alderman Carlson moved to table the discussion regarding Ordinance 2025-039; seconded by Alderman Zasada.

Prior to the vote to table the discussion, Alderman Zasada clarified that her previous “no” vote was based entirely on the community’s response, which has not changed. However, after speaking with the applicant, they are open to seeing if further communication and explanation might influence the community’s views.

Alderman Larson explained that although she wasn’t present at the September 8, 2025, meeting, she listened to the entire discussion. She expressed pride in the professionalism of the Council but acknowledged that mistakes can happen due to various factors, including committee processes and misinformation on social media. She emphasized the importance of handling matters professionally, not necessarily to change the outcome, but to ensure the process is fair and transparent, which is why she supports reconsidering the item.

Mayor Barnes agreed with Alderwoman Larson’s remarks, emphasizing the importance of professionalism and thorough investigation before voting on any issue. He reiterated his long standing support for the project and expressed appreciation that more Council members now seem open to discussing it further.

VOTE: The motion to amend the agenda tied by a 4-4 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Carlson, Barnes. Nay: Smith, Powell, Verbic, Walker.

Mayor Barnes again sought clarification from City Attorney Rose about his ability to vote, asking if his “yes” vote, under both City ordinance and state law, is valid for moving the matter forward.

City Attorney Rose confirmed that the Mayor has the right to vote on procedural matters and on the underlying annexation ordinance or agreement.

Mayor Barnes explained to those in attendance that, under state law, the Mayor typically does not vote and only facilitates the meeting. However, when he does vote, the City Attorney ensures it aligns with legal guidelines and does not improperly influence the outcome. He emphasized that he chooses to vote so the public knows where he stands on every issue and

praised City Attorney Rose for ensuring compliance with state statutes. (See page 12 of these minutes for further discussion regarding this matter.)

D. PRESENTATIONS

1. Proclamation: Fire Prevention Week, October 5 – 11, 2025.

Mayor Barnes read the proclamation in its entirety and presented it to City of DeKalb Fire Department staff.

Mayor Barnes acknowledged the DeKalb Fire Department for their daily contributions to the City of DeKalb. He also recognized Northern Illinois University (NIU) Acting Police Chief Jason John for his role in the collaboration between the City of DeKalb and NIU and invited him to join the group photo with those DeKalb firefighters present.

E. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

There was none.

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 Special City Council and Finance Advisory Committee Meeting of August 18, 2025.

2. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of September 8, 2025.

3. Accounts Payable and Payroll through September 22, 2025, in the Amount of $5,840,695.43.

4. Investment and Bank Balance Summary through July 2025.

5. Year-to-Date Revenues and Expenditures through July 2025.

6. Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Report – August 2025.

MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to approve the Consent Agenda; seconded by Alderman Powell.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

H. PUBLIC HEARINGS

There were none.

I. CONSIDERATIONS

1. Addressing Housing Insecurity in DeKalb – an Overview.

Mayor Barnes read the title for the record. He then called upon Sue Guio, who had submitted a Speaker Request Form. Ms. Guio stated she no longer wished to speak.

Tynisha Clegg, Executive Director of the Family Service Agency (FSA), addressed housing insecurity in DeKalb County, emphasizing that homelessness is not a crime and should be approached with compassion, dignity, and understanding. She highlighted the root causes of homelessness, such as trauma, poverty, and lack of access to mental health and employment services, and described the work of the Community Action Program (CAP) at FSA, along with partners like Hope Haven and Safe Passage.

Key outcomes from the CAP over the past year include:

▪ 355 individuals received personalized support;

▪ 134 families achieved long-term stability;

▪ 24 homeless individuals transitioned into permanent housing;

▪ 145 people recovered after residential fires; and

▪ 588 individuals returned to work.

Ms. Clegg stressed that temporary shelter alone is not a solution, and that wraparound services, including case management, mental health care, and employment coaching, are essential for long-term stability. She also acknowledged that refusing shelter is a personal right, and that outreach continues even when services are declined.

Concluding her comments, Ms. Clegg announced that FSA is preparing to open a youth shelter for ages 14 to 17 and encouraged anyone experiencing homelessness to reach out to CAP, Hope Haven, or other local organizations for support.

Lesly Wicks, Executive Director of Hope Haven, emphasized that collaboration is essential in addressing homelessness. She shared that Hope Haven often receives calls about individuals congregating on Fourth Street, some of whom are not homeless, and acknowledged that the area has sometimes become a gathering spot for substance use. She then gave two examples:

▪ A man living unsheltered, declined services because he was content with his current lifestyle.

▪ A woman with a history of addiction, who had a treatment bed lined up, tragically overdosed and died after using heroin while congregating on Fourth Street.

Ms. Wicks stressed that while Hope Haven offers outreach and support, there are limitations:

▪ Some individuals choose not to come due to the shelter’s strict rules; ▪ Hope Haven cannot accept sex offenders; and

▪ Clients must be DeKalb County residents, as 80% of funding comes from local sources.

MOTION: Alderman Powell moved to bring this item to the floor for discussion; seconded by Alderman Verbic.

City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. He explained that his summary was intended to initiate a broader conversation about how the City of DeKalb can better address homelessness. He acknowledged his limited expertise compared to the others who spoke but emphasized the need for government involvement alongside the work of local social service agencies.

City Manager Nicklas stated that homelessness is complex, with causes ranging from trauma and poverty to personal choices. Regardless of the cause, the City must ask what services it can and should provide. He noted that he has been actively learning about homelessness through meetings with local agencies, visits to shelters, and conversations with officials in other cities like Rockford.

Continuing, City Manager Nicklas raised concerns about public safety, citing examples of drug use and inappropriate behavior in public spaces, and noted the presence of sex offenders and individuals with severe mental illness who are currently unsheltered. He stressed the need to review and possibly revise local ordinances, both to remove barriers for service providers and to address potential exploitation of vulnerable populations by outside organizations.

Concluding his comments, City Manager Nicklas stated the goal is to better connect people to life-saving services and urged the Council to consider how the City can be a stronger partner in this effort.

Mayor Barnes asked City Manager Nicklas for clarification on the intended direction of the topic, whether the Council should take specific action or simply have an open conversation about the topic.

City Manager Nicklas acknowledged that others have deeper expertise on homelessness but emphasized the importance of Council engagement. He noted that the City has historically supported social service agencies through Human Services Program funding and Community Development Block Grants but questioned whether more could be done. He suggested that by engaging directly with those working on the front lines, the City could better align its budget priorities to meet the most pressing needs. City Manager Nicklas then proposed that Mayor Barnes consider forming an ad hoc committee made up of individuals actively involved in addressing homelessness in the community.

Mayor Barnes expressed support for forming a more formalized group to address homelessness, building on insights from organizations like Hope Haven, FSA, and local churches. He proposed creating a space for structured dialogue and collaboration, with the goal of developing recommendations for how the City can be a stronger partner.

Seeing agreement from members of the audience and the Council, Mayor Barnes confirmed that follow-up communication would be sent via email to schedule the first meeting.

J. RESOLUTIONS

1. Resolution 2025-083 Authorizing an Intergovernmental Agreement for Shared Police Protection Services with the Board of Trustees of Northern Illinois University.

Mayor Barnes 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 item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. He explained that since 2014, the City of DeKalb and NIU have had an intergovernmental agreement to promote cooperation between their police departments. The proposed update to this agreement would formalize and expand that collaboration.

Key points include:

▪ NIU officers would be authorized to enforce laws in a designated shared patrol area (north of the Union Pacific Railroad and west of Garden Road);

▪ NIU would retain responsibility for any arrests or investigations initiated by their officers – no handoffs to City police;

▪ In emergencies, DeKalb officers could assist on NIU’s campus and exercise their legal authority there; and

▪ The agreement involves no financial compensation between parties and reflects a continued spirit of cooperation.

City Manager Nicklas noted that the proposal has been reviewed and supported by both police departments and their legal teams, and approval is strongly recommended.

Mayor Barnes praised the strong relationship between the DeKalb Police Department and the NIU Police Department, attributing much of that success to the leadership of NIU’s Acting Police Chief, Jason John. He shared positive feedback from DeKalb officers during ride-alongs and noted that City leadership regularly discusses this partnership with NIU.

Mayor Barnes then expressed appreciation for Acting Chief John’s role in maintaining and enhancing the collaboration and recognized his effective leadership and career accomplishments.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

2. Resolution 2025-084 Authorizing a Fund 400 Architectural Improvement Program (AIP) Grant for Nidal Musleh for the Property Located at 1215 Blackhawk Road in the Amount of $25,000.

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 item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. The petitioner, who is under contract to purchase the former Fanatico property at 1215 Blackhawk Road, intends to remodel the building into a grocery store on the first floor and a business office on the second floor. Since entering the contract in May 2024, they’ve worked closely with the City’s building division and a general contractor. The property required extensive clean-up due to a previous fire, followed by significant plumbing, HVAC, and electrical upgrades to support the new layout. The total remodeling cost exceeded $100,000, with over half spent on eligible mechanical improvements. Under the City’s non-TIF AIP guidelines, the project qualifies for 50% reimbursement of those eligible costs. City Manager Nicklas noted City staff’s support.

Alderman Zasada expressed enthusiasm about the visible progress being made on the building, which is located in the First Ward.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

3. Resolution 2025-085 Authorizing a Contract with Axon Enterprise, Inc. for the Provision of Police Department Bodycams, Tasers, Squad Car Cameras, and Unlimited Digital Storage for a Five-Year Term in the Total Amount of $1,247,755.20.

Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Verbic 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, highlighting a five-year contract with Axon that includes three key components:

1. Body Cameras: The DeKalb Police Department has used body cams since 2021. They’ve proven valuable for documentation, transparency, and accountability. The contract includes 75 body cams, matching the department’s current number of sworn officers.

2. Tasers: The department’s current tasers are outdated. The contract includes new Axon tasers to replace the obsolete models, maintaining a critical non-lethal force option.

3. Squad Car Cameras: The department has used various in-car camera systems, leading to inconsistency. The contract proposes Axon’s unified system with 57 cameras across 19 frontline vehicles, providing front-facing, rear-facing, and interior views for improved reliability and coverage.

Mayor Barnes expressed strong support for the proposal, stating that every dollar spent is worthwhile, calling the investment valuable and beneficial.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

4. Resolution 2025-086 Approving a Grant of Easement from Nehring Electrical Works for a Watermain on Property Located at 1085 Peace Road.

Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.

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

City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. The property, known as the Ryerson Building, and currently owned by Nehring Electrical Works, is planning a 300-foot by 50-foot expansion to the south to accommodate a specialized wire-drawing machine that requires uninterrupted space for efficiency and cost

effectiveness. However, the expansion would intersect with an existing 12-inch City watermain loop, so the water line needs to be relocated further south. A private party will handle the relocation, but the City needs to approve a new easement to ensure future access for maintenance.

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. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

5. Resolution 2025-087 Approving a License Agreement with PAI Belvidere Farms LLC to Access and Inspect Property for the Proposed Well #18.

Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.

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

City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. In response to rapid growth on DeKalb’s southeast side, the City contracted Baxter & Woodman in 2023 to develop a strategic water model and master plan, which was completed in May 2025. The plan identified two major capital improvements:

1. A new water transmission main running along Illinois Route 23 to Keslinger Road and back up Afton Road, connecting to existing infrastructure built during the Ferrara and Meta developments; and

2. A new shallow well (Well 18) on the northwest side to increase water supply capacity.

By 2035, projections show the City will be nearing its firm capacity limit, especially if a major well fails. To address this, the City plans to test drill a well on Belvidere Farms, just outside City limits on W. Lincoln Highway. If the test is successful, the City will proceed with purchasing over an acre of land and installing a watermain to the nearby treatment plant. If the site proves unsuitable, the City will only pay for crop damage, and the remaining funds will be used to explore other locations. He emphasized the methodical planning behind the project and requested Council support to move forward.

Mayor Barnes acknowledged that while the water infrastructure project may not seem exciting on the surface, it’s critically important for economic development, alongside utilities like power and waste treatment, and expressed enthusiasm about the project moving forward.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

6. Resolution 2025-088 Authorizing the Purchase of One Rosenbauer EXT Pumper in the Amount of $950,894, with Upfitting Costs of Up to $49,106, for a Total Not to Exceed $1,000,000 Using GEMT Fund 130.

Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Smith 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 City recently celebrated the arrival of a new $1.6 million Rosenbauer fire engine, which is now in service. While there were no immediate plans to purchase another, the City has been using a reserve engine (Engine 4) at Station 4 and began exploring future replacement options. Upon researching, they discovered that fire apparatus costs have risen sharply – up to 20% annually – due to industry consolidation and high demand. Waiting another year could increase the cost by $100,000 or more. Thanks to available funds in the GEMT (Ground Emergency Medical Transportation) fund, the City can lock in the current price now without payment due until late 2026 or 2027. The vendor has agreed to honor the price until delivery. Other vendors were either more expensive or didn’t meet specifications.

City Manager Nicklas then thanked Acting Fire Chief Howison for his foresight and recommended council approval to move forward with the purchase now to avoid future cost increases.

Alderman Larson praised Council’s recent decision via Resolution 2025-085 of standardizing police equipment under one vendor for easier maintenance and usability. She also commended the Fire Department’s proactive planning, noting that ordering early saves money by locking in lower prices. She emphasized that these smart financial decisions are adding up to real savings

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

K. ORDINANCES – SECOND READING

There were none.

L. ORDINANCES – FIRST READING

1. Ordinance 2025-042 Authorizing Boundary Modifications to the Area Known as the DeKalb County Enterprise Zone, Amendment 5 (Southeast DeKalb Industrial Expansion).

Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Zasada 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. This ordinance considers an amendment to the DeKalb County Enterprise Zone, originally established in 2016. The Enterprise Zone includes several designating units of government – DeKalb, Sycamore, Cortland, Genoa, Sandwich, Waterman, and DeKalb County – that have the authority to approve changes. Other local taxing bodies may participate in discussions but do not vote.

The Enterprise Zone offers key incentives, which have successfully attracted major corporate investment to the area:

▪ State Level: 1% sales tax exemption on building materials purchased in Illinois. ▪ Local Level: Property tax abatements offered by participating taxing bodies.

The proposed amendment would add 259 acres near the Golden Farm property, now owned by Keros Acquisitions, bringing the total Enterprise Zone area to 15.6 square miles, which would still be under the 20-square-mile cap allowed by the state. The Illinois Department of Agriculture has approved the amendment, and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is awaiting Council approval to proceed.

Mayor Barnes reflected on the progress made over the past decade, noting that both he and City Manager Nicklas served on the DCEDC board during the early stages of the Enterprise Zone’s development and expressed appreciation for seeing how far the initiative has come.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

MOTION: Alderman Powell moved to waive Second Reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Carlson.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

2. Ordinance 2025-034 Repealing Ordinance 2022-070 Which Approved a Zoning Map Amendment from the “NC” Neighborhood Commercial District to the “PD-R” Planned Development Residential District and the Preliminary Development Plan for the Property at 145 Fisk Avenue.

Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Carlson moved to approve First Reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Powell.

Gina Berardi spoke on behalf of neighbors concerned about the Fisk Avenue property. She expressed frustration with the property owner, Mr. Sauser, for failing to follow through on promised apartment construction. Ms. Berardi described ongoing issues with squatters, parties, and police involvement due to the property’s neglect and urged the Council to reject the commercial rezoning unless a clear, responsible plan is presented.

Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.

MOTION 1: Alderman Carlson moved to approve First Reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Powell. (There was no vote; see Motion 2.)

City Manager Nicklas gave an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. At the July 28, 2025, Public Hearing regarding the potential repeal of Ordinance 2022-070, the Council recommended that staff collaborate with Mr. Sauser to resolve several issues, including the prompt payment of outstanding property maintenance fines, which was done that same week. City Manager Nicklas reported that the building has since had new plywood installed on exterior windows and doors. However, a final engineering plan, required before further progress can be made, is still pending. The plan is expected from the engineering firm Willard Hoffman by the end of October.

Mayor Barnes asked if most of the concerns noted during the July 28, 2025, meeting have been addressed.

City Manager Nicklas responded that the main remaining issue is the final engineering plan, while other items, such as window updates, building maintenance, and restoring electricity, have been completed. He noted that Mr. Sauser has been providing regular progress updates and has followed through on the commitments made at the July 28, 2025 meeting, demonstrating clear effort and engagement.

Alderman Larson expressed understanding of the delays, noting that in construction projects, once you step away, it can be difficult to get back on a contractor’s schedule. She reminded the Council that Mr. Sauser had health issues that caused a setback, and she supported giving him another chance. Alderman Larson also acknowledged that Mr. Sauser has been providing updates and reaffirmed her support for the project, saying the plans look excellent and would benefit the neighborhood.

Alderman Powell reiterated his support for the project, emphasizing that while some progress appears to be happening, he wants to see more concrete action to move it forward for the benefit of the neighborhood.

Mayor Barnes stated the Council is considering extending the timeline for the project through the end of October, with the expectation that it will return for review at the first Council meeting in November.

Mr. Sauser reported that the project is nearing completion, with the final photometric plan submitted. However, finalization of lighting and landscaping plans depends on the completion of the final plat, which has been delayed by the engineering firm, now expected by late October, emphasizing that switching firms would cause further delays. He noted that most window boarding is complete, except for five high windows requiring special equipment. Temporary electric service has been inspected and is awaiting connection, which will allow for security lighting to deter trespassers.

In response to neighborhood concerns, Mr. Sauser stated he is open to installing a fence earlier than planned to prevent foot traffic through the property. He also mentioned ongoing communication with nearby residents and encouraged others to reach out with concerns, reaffirming his commitment to improving the neighborhood.

Alderman Smith briefly addressed Ms. Berardi, asking if she is okay with the plan as described above, to which she replied from the audience that she was.

City Attorney Rose advised that if the Council wishes to continue the discussion at a future meeting, a formal motion to table the item, followed by a second, is required.

MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to table the ordinance until the November 10, 2025, Council meeting; seconded by Alderman Powell.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

Mayor Barnes encouraged Mr. Sauser to keep up the good work.

M. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS

1. Council Member Reports.

Alderman Carlson reflected on his first four months in office, noting that within as much time, four long-time residents of DeKalb – Ginny Cook, Mary Simons, Elmer Brown, and Maury Drury – have passed away. He highlighted how these individuals were foundational to the community, having lived, worked, and raised families in DeKalb.

Alderman Carlson also mentioned receiving feedback about his recent vote at the September 8, 2025, Council meeting regarding the proposed solar field, adding that he appreciates the engagement and dialogue it fostered and encouraged continued community involvement.

Alderman Powell shared that he attended the recent Illinois Municipal League (IML) conference, which he found educational. He also reported about a ride-along with a police officer who had transferred to DeKalb from another area. The officer praised the Council, administration, and staff for their strong support of the Police Department, citing it as a key reason for choosing to work in DeKalb. He also commended local landlords for being more compliant and cooperative in maintaining order.

Alderman Walker asked City Attorney Rose for clarification on whether a majority vote is needed to amend the agenda.

City Attorney Rose confirmed that a motion to amend the agenda does require a majority of the Council members.

Alderman Walker acknowledged the clarification, indicating he now understands the requirement for future reference.

Alderman Verbic announced a DeKalb Park District master planning meeting scheduled for Thursday, September 25, 2025, at the Hopkins Park Community Center. He encouraged residents, especially those concerned about a proposed path behind Yorkshire Drive in the Kensington subdivision (Ward 6), to attend and share their input with the park board. He also wished a happy birthday to former Mayor Jerry Smith.

Mayor Barnes shared highlights from a busy few weeks:

▪ Attended the IML Conference, finding it thought-provoking and informative;

▪ Participated in the “Be the One Walk” organized by the American Legion to raise awareness and funds for veteran suicide prevention, emphasizing the staggering statistic of 22 veteran suicides per day;

▪ Spoke at the Youth Leadership Academy organized by Bruce Griffiths, engaging with local high school seniors;

▪ Celebrated the 100th anniversary of Boy Scout Troop 4;

▪ Met with various community leaders, including DeKalb Public Library Director Emily Faulkner to discuss tax rates and board appointments; Dan Kenney and others for the America 250 kickoff, which marks the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence; and DeKalb Township Supervisor Mary Hess and DeKalb School District President Chris Boyes to maintain alignment and collaboration;

▪ Interviewed a potential City Engineer;

▪ Sat in on a housing webinar;

▪ Visited the Sigma Nu Pig Roast, praising the fraternity’s community involvement;

▪ Met with the DeKalb Park District regarding graffiti issues. He condemned political graffiti in public parks and called for stricter penalties.

2. City Manager Report.

City Manager Nicklas had no report.

N. EXECUTIVE SESSION

1. Approval to Hold an Executive Session Meeting to Discuss Personnel as Provided for in 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1).

Mayor Barnes read the exemption above for the record.

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

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed and recessed the Regular meeting at 7:25 p.m.

Following the adjournment of the Executive Session, Mayor Barnes opened the meeting to the public at 7:40 p.m.

City Attorney Rose explained a mistake regarding a tie vote on a motion to reconsider and a motion to table an item at the top of the meeting as it pertains to Ordinance 2025-039. Initially, he believed a tie vote constituted a simple majority, but after reviewing the Municipal Code, he determined that a tie vote is not a simple majority. Therefore, the motion to reconsider the ordinance failed and will not be brought back before the Council. Similarly, the motion to table the item also failed and will not return.

City Attorney Rose apologized for the confusion and the delay it caused. Mayor Barnes thanked City Attorney Rose for the clarification and accountability. O. ADJOURNMENT

MOTION: Alderman Carlson moved to adjourn the Regular meeting; seconded by Alderman Walker.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 voice vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Carlson, Powell, Verbic, Walker. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed and adjourned the Regular meeting at 7:53 p.m.

https://www.cityofdekalb.com/DocumentCenter/View/19875/4-092225-Regular-CC-Minutes