East Central Reporter

City of Olney City Council met Dec. 9.

Here is the minutes provided by the council:

AGENDA #1 “CALL TO ORDER” The December 9, 2019, meeting of the Olney City Council was called to order at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Olney City Hall located at 300 S. Whittle Avenue, Olney, Illinois, with Mayor Mark Lambird presiding.

AGENDA #2 “PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG-PRAYER” Council members and visitors joined in the pledge of allegiance to the flag. Mayor Lambird led the group in prayer.

AGENDA #3 “ROLL CALL” The following Council members were present: Greg Eyer, Morgan Fehrenbacher, Belinda Henton, and Mark Lambird. Councilman John McLaughlin entered at 7:01 p.m. Also present were City Manager Allen Barker, City Clerk Kelsie Sterchi, City Treasurer Jane Guinn, City Engineer Mike Bridges, and City Attorney Bart Zuber.

AGENDA #4 “PRESENTATION OF CONSENT AGENDA”

4-A “Approve Minutes of Council Meeting on November 25, 2019”

4-B “Approve and Authorize Payment of Accounts Payable December 10, 2019” Pooled Cash $80,219.69, Manual Pooled Cash $104,433.12, Petty Cash $182.00, Elliot Street Bridge $2,242.00, Project Fund Account $177,121.00, IMRF $27,662.91, Tourism $4,000.00, Christmas Light Display $6,594.60

4-C “Raffle License: Richland County CEO (RCHS)”

4-D “Resolution: Dissolve Road Committee Due to Project Completion” 2019-R-79 4-E “Resolution: Cancel the December 23, 2019, City Council Meeting” 2019-R-80 4-F “Ordinance: Amend Title 10 (Vehicles and Traffic) of the City of Olney Municipal Cody by Adding Chapter 10.20 (Authorizing the Operation of Golf Carts and Recreational Off- Highway Vehicles on the City of Olney Public Streets) Thereto” 2019-38

4-G “Appointment: Brandy McKinney to the Plan Commission”

AGENDA #5 “REMOVAL OF ITEMS FROM CONSENT AGENDA” Councilwoman Henton requested that 4-C be removed from the Consent Agenda for clarification. Councilwoman Fehrenbacher requested that 4-D be removed from the Consent Agenda.

AGENDA #6 “CONSIDERATION OF CONSENT AGENDA” Councilman McLaughlin moved to approve the items on the consent agenda, except for 4-C and 4-D, seconded by Councilwoman Fehrenbacher. A majority affirmative voice vote was received.

AGENDA #7 “CONSIDERATION OF ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT AGENDA” Councilwoman Henton recalled that raffle licenses should not be issued to not-for-profits that had not been in business for at least five years. The Richland County CEO program had not been in existence for five years. While the members were high school students, the Councilwoman wondered if the program actually fell under the umbrella of RCDC. RCDC Executive Director Courtney Yockey confirmed.

Councilwoman Fehrenbacher wondered if the Road Committee should be dissolved if public education would be needed for the sales tax referendum. Mayor Lambird replied that the City could educate, but not advocate. Mr. Zuber agreed. If any one or any group wished to advocate on behalf of the sales tax referendum, it would need to be done without any link to the City.

Mr. Zuber was also aware that it seemed fairly unclear as to whether or not the Road Committee was ever actually a City committee. No resolution was ever created to establish a committee, but Mr. Zuber felt the City should be clear that there was no affiliation.

Councilwoman Henton moved to approve 4-C “Raffle License: Richland County CEO,” seconded by Councilwoman Fehrenbacher. A majority affirmative voice vote was received.

Councilwoman Fehrenbacher moved to approve 4-D “Resolution: Dissolve Road Committee Due to Project Completion,” seconded by Councilman McLaughlin. A majority affirmative voice vote was received.

AGENDA #8 “PRESENTATION OF ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS, ETC.”

8-A “Ordinance: Amend Chapter 17.08, Chapter 17.44, & Chapter 17.56 of Title 17 (Zoning) of the City of Olney Municipal Code” The Council was provided with a proposed

ordinance that would amend Chapters 17.08, 17.44, and 17.56 of Title 17 (Zoning) of the City of Olney Municipal Code. The Council was also provided with a copy of draft minutes from the December 2, 2019, Plan Commission meeting.

The December 2, 2019, Plan Commission meeting had ended with a majority affirmative vote to recommend that the City Council approve the proposed ordinance, as presented. Mr. Zuber told the Council that the proposed ordinance was drafted based on guidance from the Illinois Municipal League (IML).

The proposed ordinance laid out several definitions related to adult-use cannabis, including definitions of the six different kinds of adult-use cannabis business establishments that would exist. Depending on the category of adult-use cannabis business establishment, the proposed ordinance would make amendments in C-2 (Commercial District), C-3 (Central Business District), M-1 (Light Industrial District), and M-2 (Heavy Industrial District) for allowance.

Councilman Eyer asked if the City required a drug-free workplace. Mr. Barker confirmed, adding that was also dictated in collective bargaining agreements.

Councilman Eyer then explained that he was very opposed to allowing retail sales of adult-use cannabis in Olney. He felt that the promotion of such retail sales could appear as if the City was in conflict of its own standards. Additionally, the Councilman did not feel that cannabis was family-friendly or good for the health and welfare of the community. While he understood that some people were interested in the generation of additional tax revenue, he did not believe that a revenue stream from the sale of adult-use cannabis was acceptable.

Mr. Zuber pointed out a typo in that the proposed ordinance should also allow for the title to read that Chapter 17.60 was also being amended, as detailed further in the ordinance.

From the audience, Dr. David Eckiss wondered if there were many suitable sites available for such adult-use cannabis establishments. Mayor Lambird replied that there would be some spaces available in the City, but placement would not be as easy as a restaurant, for example.

From the audience, Martin Riggs felt that cannabis also offered medicinal benefits, and also compared cannabis use to that of alcohol.

Councilman McLaughlin pointed out that regardless, the State of Illinois had passed legislation that would allow adult-use of cannabis throughout the state. This would mean that even if zoning amendments were not made, the adults of Olney would be allowed to use cannabis. The City could not outlaw the adult use of cannabis. Even so, Councilman Eyer felt that the image of Olney from the outside looking in would not be good.

Councilman McLaughlin was not sure how to feel about the topic. In the past, he had shown support on business and use related to medicinal use of cannabis. At that time, he was also documented to having said that when it came to recreational use, he would not be in favor. Now that so much had changed over the past three years, especially with the State’s allowance for use, he felt he was put between a rock and a hard place.

Councilman Eyer agreed that he was not opposed to prescribed, medical-use cannabis. He asked police Chief Paddock if he saw increases in maintaining law and order on issues involving alcohol. The Chief confirmed. The Councilman then asked the Chief if he believed increases in maintaining law and order would increase if cannabis usage also increased. The Chief replied that he would imagine so.

Mayor Lambird disagreed, and felt that prohibitions typically made for more criminals. He added that the City was also in desperate need of the additional revenue.

Councilman Eyer asked the Mayor how much revenue he was expecting. Mayor Lambird replied that he would expect a significant amount in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Councilman Eyer disagreed.

Mayor Lambird asked how many times the Chief had seen drunk people in fights. Chief Paddock replied that he had seen more than he could count. The Mayor then asked if he saw such fights as often with cannabis use. The Chief replied it was usually a combination of drug and alcohol use.

From the audience, Bill Riggs noted that Effingham had approved zoning amendments that would allow for the sale of adult-use cannabis. He asked the Council if they wanted to lose their sales tax to places like Effingham. He felt that the people that wanted to use cannabis would do so, but would travel elsewhere.

Mayor Lambird moved to approve Ordinance 2019-39, seconded by Councilwoman Fehrenbacher. Mayor Lambird, Councilwomen Fehrenbacher, Henton, and Councilman McLaughlin voted yes. Councilman Eyer voted no. The motion carried.

8-B “Resolution: Amend the City of Olney Sewer Plant Budget for Fiscal Year 2019- 2020 for Digester Lid Repairs” The Council was provided with a proposed resolution that would amend the 2019-2020 Sewer Department budget for digester lid repairs.

Mr. Barker reminded the Council that at the last meeting, the Council voted to accept a proposal from Floyd’s Welding Inc., in the amount of $89,500.00 for repairs to the Sewer Department’s primary digester. The proposed ordinance would combine the Digester Lid (Painting) and Digester Lid (Piping) line items in order to accommodate the repairs. Mr. Barker also pointed out that there was a chance that the money may not be spent in the current fiscal year due to the time it would take to have parts ordered.

Councilman McLaughlin moved to approve 2019-R-81, seconded by Councilwoman Fehrenbacher. Councilwomen Fehrenbacher, Henton, Councilmen McLaughlin, Eyer, and Mayor Lambird voted yes. There were no opposing votes. The motion carried.

8-C “Presentation: Police Pension Board Formal Request for Tax Levy” The Council was provided with a Police Pension tax levy worksheet, as created by Mrs. Guinn.

Mrs. Guinn told the Council that the Police Pension Board had met on October 24, 2019, and approved requesting an amount of $704,798.00 for the 2019-2020 Police Pension Tax Levy. That total included the recommended levy amount of $685,798.00 plus $19,000.00 in expenses.

Councilwoman Fehrenbacher moved to approved the Police Pension Board formal request for tax levy, seconded by Councilwoman Henton. Councilwomen Henton, Fehrenbacher, Councilmen McLaughlin, Eyer, and Mayor Lambird voted yes. There were no opposing votes. The motion carried.

8-D “Presentation: Firefighters Pension Board Formal Request for Tax Levy” The Council was provided with a Firefighters Pension tax levy worksheet, as created by Mrs. Guinn.

Mrs. Guinn reported that the Firefighters Pension Board had met on November 12, 2019, and approved requesting an amount of $242,421.00 for the 2019-2020 Firefighters Pension Tax Levy. The total included the recommended levy amount of $172,121.00, $15,300.00 in expenses, and an additional contribution of $55,000.00. Mrs. Guinn pointed out that the extra $55,000.00 would allow for the income and expenses to break even.

Councilwoman Fehrenbacher moved to approve the Firefighters Pension Board formal request for tax levy, seconded by Councilman Eyer. Mayor Lambird, Councilman Eyer, Councilwomen Fehrenbacher and Henton voted yes. Councilman McLaughlin voted no. The motion carried.

8-E “Ordinance: Tax Levy” The Council was provided with a tax levy worksheet for the City and the Library, as created by Mrs. Guinn.

Mrs. Guinn recommended that the City levy $2,109,084.31, and that the Library levy $229,922.13 for a total of $2,339,006.44. This would be an increase in the tax rate of 3.798% for the City, and 0% for the Library.

Councilwoman Fehrenbacher moved to approve Ordinance 2019-40, seconded by Mayor Lambird. Mayor Lambird, Councilman Eyer, Councilwomen Fehrenbacher and Henton voted yes. Councilman McLaughlin voted no. The motion carried.

8-F “Ordinance: Authorize the Sale of Items of Personal Property Owned by the City of Olney – 2001 Dodge Ram 1500 from the Water Distribution Department” The Council was provided with a proposed ordinance that would authorize the sale of a 2001 Dodge Ram 1500 from the Water Distribution Department.

Mr. Barker explained that the 2001 Dodge Ram 1500 was no longer operational, and was recommended to be sold for scrap at Scrap Daddy Inc., of Olney, Illinois.

Councilman McLaughlin moved to approve Ordinance 2019-41, seconded by Councilwoman Henton. A majority affirmative voice vote was received.

8-G “Ordinance: Authorize the Sale of Items of Personal Property Owned by the City of Olney – 1974 Ford F500 from the street Department” The Council was provided with a proposed ordinance that would authorize the sale of a 1974 Ford F500 from the Street Department.

Mr. Barker stated that the 1974 Ford F500 was no longer needed. He recommended offering the vehicle for sale on GovDeals.com.

Councilwoman Henton moved to approve Ordinance 2019-42, seconded by Councilwoman Fehrenbacher. A majority affirmative voice vote was received.

8-H “Discussion/Possible Resolution: Calling for Referendum for a 0.5% Sales Tax Increase for Road Maintenance” The Council was provided with a proposed resolution that would call for the submission to the electors of the City of Olney the question of whether the City of Olney shall impose a tax under 65 ILCS 5/8-11-1.3 and 65 ILCS 5/8-11-1.4. This same topic was discussed at the November 25, 2019, Council meeting where it was ultimately tabled to bring back for discussion at this meeting.

Councilman McLaughlin had done some research regarding a new bill that would give $1,500,000,000.00 to local municipalities for road work. The City’s portion of that amount should be about $601,000.00, and would be paid over the span of three years. He felt that amount could be set aside and used towards the resurfacing of Main Street.

Councilman Eyer asked when those funds would be received. Mrs. Guinn was not certain, but she did imagine the funds would go through MFT.

Councilwoman Fehrenbacher pointed out that a lot of work would be needed underneath of Main Street before it could be resurfaced.

At the last meeting, the Council discussed a possible sunset clause to be added onto the referendum. Mr. Zuber had indicated that such wording could not be included on the ballot. However, if the sales tax increase passed, wording could be included for a sunset clause in the Council’s ordinance that would formally adopt the increase.

Councilman Eyer wondered if educating the public about a 10-year sunset clause would be acceptable. Mr. Zuber cautioned that even if a sunset clause was the desire of the current Council, it may not be the same desire of a future Council in 10 years.

Councilman McLaughlin asked for clarification on retail sales tax versus sales service tax. Mr. Zuber gave an example that could help. He said that if someone went into Napa Auto Parts to buy an air filter, you would pay sales tax on that purchase. If someone went to Marathon to have their vehicle serviced, and an air filter was a part of that service, sales tax would only be assessed on the cost of the filter.

From the audience, Bill Riggs was not in favor of a sales tax increase because the school district had a referendum pass recently for a 1% increase. He hoped voters would be smart enough to vote it down. As the owner of a liquor store, he felt that constant tax increases made it difficult on him as a business owner. He did feel that several of his patrons were aware of the current sales tax rate.

Councilman McLaughlin pointed out that the City of Olney had never raised the sales tax rates. The school district and County had in the past. He pointed out that the proposed sales tax increase would help to collect funds that would be used solely for the purpose of road maintenance.

Martin Riggs was concerned with Olney’s sales tax rate being so high. Mayor Lambird pointed out that there were other areas in the State with 9.5% or 10% sales tax rates. Mr. Zuber added that the City of Olney’s current sales tax rate was 0%.

Councilman McLaughlin admitted that historically, he had been very against tax increases. Over the past seven years, the complaint he continued to receive the most was on the condition of the roads. He could not figure out any other way to fund the needed capital road projects than through a sales tax increase.

The Councilman had continued concern with the referendum not being allowed to specifically state that the sales tax increase would go only towards roads. Mr. Zuber reminded the Council that something so specific could not be stated on the ballot, and would instead have to note that the tax would be used for public infrastructure. If the Council wished to clarify in its subsequent ordinance that would only be for road work, that would be acceptable. Public infrastructure would also allow for repair to bridges, access roads, sidewalks, etc.

From the audience, Bryce Fehrenbacher told the audience he had been serving on the Road Committee from the very beginning. A study had been created that assessed all roads in the City of Olney. At this time, about 65% of the City’s roads were oil and chip, and had a poor base. The life of oil and chip roads was approximately five years. Upgrading to asphalt roads would allow for immediate improvement with a much longer life span. At this time, approximately $10,000,000.00 would be needed to upgrade all roads to asphalt.

From the audience, Bill Riggs felt that large trucks, buses, and equipment should pay higher fees for the damage they do to the roads.

Councilwoman Henton asked if the public would be informed enough by the March elections. Mayor Lambird felt it was likely. Mr. Fehrenbacher agreed.

If the 0.5% sales tax increase passed, Councilman McLaughlin noted that would provide the City with about $800,000.00 in extra funds per year for road maintenance. That increase plus the current MFT funds would allow the City to spend about $1,000,000.00 per year on road maintenance. In 10 years, Councilman McLaughlin did not believe that the City would need to continue to spend that increased amount on road maintenance. Because of this, he felt a sunset clause was important.

Councilman Eyer moved to approve 2019-R-82, seconded by Councilman McLaughlin. A majority affirmative voice vote was received.

8-I “Ordinance: Amend Title 5 (Business Licenses and Regulations) of the City of Olney Municipal Code by Adding Chapter 5.44 (Regulation of Food Service Establishments) Thereto” The Council was provided with a proposed ordinance that would amend Title 5 (Business Licenses and Regulations) of the City of Olney Municipal Code by adding Chapter 5.44

(Regulation of Food Service Establishments) Thereto. The ordinance would also amend the fee structure.

Mr. Barker reminded the Council that in 2017, the City passed Ordinance 2017-13 which allowed for partnership with the Wabash County Health Department for the performance of inspections on food service establishments. The Wabash County Health Department had since increased their inspection fees, and the new fee structure was $350.00 for High Priority Facilities, $250.00 for Medium Priority Facilities, and $200 for Low Priority Facilities. Temporary Food Service Establishments fee decreased to $25.00.

Councilwoman Henton moved to approve Ordinance 2019-43, seconded by Councilman Eyer. A majority affirmative voice vote was received.

8-J “Discussion/Resolution: Accept Quotes for Liability, Property, Workers Compensation, Auto, and Miscellaneous Insurance Coverages for 2020” The Council was provided with a proposed resolution that would accept quotes for liability, property, workers compensation, auto, and miscellaneous insurance coverages for 2020. The Council was also provided with the renewal premium quote from Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.

Mr. Barker told the Council that the renewal premium was set to increase by 7% for this year. The increase was mostly due to workers compensation. He pointed out that the City was also eligible for a $6,925.00 grant from the Illinois Public Risk Fund which could be used for safety-related expenses.

Councilman Eyer wondered why the automobile coverage was increasing by 10%. Mr. Barker replied that rather than the increase coming from claims, the cost of repairs had increased.

Councilwoman Henton moved to approve 2019-R-83, seconded by Councilwoman Fehrenbacher. A majority affirmative voice vote was received.

8-K “Discussion/Possible Action: Suspend Tourism Grant Program” In the past, the Council had briefly discussed the revision of criteria to qualify for Tourism Grant funding. The budget line item for funding had been exceeded for this fiscal year. Mr. Barker told the Council that a small group, including Councilwomen Henton and Fehrenbacher, had met and recommended to not consider any additional Tourism Grant requests until the new budget was approved and the criteria revised.

Mayor Lambird wondered if the suspension would affect any yearly applicants. Mrs. Sterchi indicated that the White Squirrel Cruisers Car Club (WSCCC) had been a yearly applicant until a few years ago. They did submit an application for this year, but were denied as the application was submitted after the event had already taken place.

Councilwoman Henton felt that the current Tourism Grant guidelines would not be in line with the WSCCC’s request because their annual car show was not a new event trying to get off of the ground.

Councilwoman Fehrenbacher stated that the suspension would be so that the City would not go over budget if a new Tourism Grant Application came through. In the meantime, new rules and regulations would be discussed, and she felt it could be possible that the City would create its own events using Tourism funds.

Councilman McLaughlin moved to suspend the Tourism Grant Program, seconded by Councilwoman Fehrenbacher. A majority affirmative voice vote was received.

8-L “Discussion/Possible Action: Olney Little League’s Request for Portable Toilets Near Fields 7 and 8 in Musgrove Park” Mr. Barker told the Council that he had received a request from the Olney Little League to place portable toilets near fields 7 and 8 in Musgrove Park. The portable toilets would incur no cost to the City and would be removed after ball season.

Councilman McLaughlin moved to allow the Olney Little League to place portable toilets near fields 7 and 8 in Musgrove Park, seconded by Councilwoman Henton. A majority affirmative voice vote was received.

8-M “Discussion/Possible Resolution Authorizing Contract for Professional Services with PGAV Relating to Creation of Additional TIF District” The Council was provided with a proposed contract for professional services between the City and PGAV Planners, LLC. (PGA V).

Mr. Yockey wished to discuss items 8-M and 8-N together. He told the Council that a few business prospects were inquiring about building around the City’s industrial parks. The projects would require infrastructure improvements. Mr. Yockey felt that it would be beneficial for a new TIF district to be created. Infrastructure improvements would also be a TIF-eligible expense.

The proposed contract with PGAV would then allow for a feasibility study and creation of TIF redevelopment plans. If approved, the creation of a new TIF district could take about six months.

Mr. Yockey then stated that when the last TIF was created in 2010, that TIF district included 215 parcels. The newly proposed TIF district would include 15 parcels.

Councilwoman Fehrenbacher recalled that at the last Council meeting, the Council felt that the new TIF district should be connected to the Route 130 TIF District. Looking at the proposed map for the new TIF, she noticed that had not been done. Mr. Yockey replied that there was not much time between the last Council meeting and this evening’s meeting due to the Thanksgiving holiday. Even if the contract and resolutions were passed, the TIF area could still be amended before a new TIF district was put into place.

Councilman McLaughlin asked if any of the other taxing bodies had issues with the proposal. Mr. Yockey had only spoken with IECC and RCCU #1 so far. They understood the plan and seemed supportive.

Councilman Eyer knew that a TIF district could only be created in a blighted area. He was unsure whether or not the area would be considered blighted. Mr. Yockey indicated that many factors were included in the determination of what would be considered as blighted, but felt the proposed area would qualify.

Councilman Eyer then wondered if Mr. Yockey’s business prospects would locate “but for” the inducement resolution. Mr. Yockey replied that accepting their requests for assistance would secure the projects, but that the TIF would be more of a mechanism of support.

Councilman Eyer was concerned with PGAV’s $30,000.00 fee. Councilman McLaughlin replied that amount could be reimbursed as it was a TIF-eligible expense.

Councilman McLaughlin moved to approve 2019-R-84 (Authorizing Contract for Professional Services with PGAV Relating to Creation of Additional TIF District) and 2019-R- 85 (Resolution: Providing for a Feasibility Study on the Designation of a Portion of the City of Olney as a Redevelopment Project Area and to Induce Development Interest Within Such Area), seconded by Councilwoman Henton. A majority affirmative voice vote was received.

8-N “Resolution: Providing for Feasibility Study on the Designation of a Portion of the City of Olney as a Redevelopment Project Area (TIF District) and to Induce Development Interest Within Such Area” The Council was provided with a proposed resolution that would provide for a feasibility study on the designation of a portion of the City of Olney as a redevelopment project area (TIF District) would induce development interest within such area.

Action on this topic was taken under item 8-M.

8-O “Discussion/Possible Action: VFW Memorial Placement” At the last Council meeting, a request was heard from the Olney Memorial Post #4226 (VFW) about placement of a memorial in the City Park. No action was taken at that meeting.

One of the questions raised during the last discussion was whether or not Prevailing Wage would apply towards the project. Mayor Lambird had found out that since labor would be donated, Prevailing Wage would not apply.

The Mayor had also spoken with Park Department Supervisor Frank Bradley on the current state of the City Park fountain. Mr. Bradley had indicated that the fountain would need a significant amount of work, including foundation work.

Some of the Council also had concern with the removal of trees in the proposed location. Other members of the Council also felt that the trees in that area were not in good condition. As such, a certified arborist from Ameren would soon be visiting to give his professional opinion on the health of those trees.

Mayor Lambird had also been given some information from the Tree Board regarding trees that were planted in the past few years by grants and/or donations. In addition to trees, grants and/or donations were also used on tree care and tree care accessories. Information from other City departments was not available at this time. Reviewing the information, Mayor Lambird did not feel that the amount of trees planted would match some of the Council’s concern with trees. He felt that 100-200 trees should be planted per year to match some of the Council’s concerns. This was not to say that the Mayor was not concerned with trees. He suggested that the Olney FFA could be contacted about starting a hardwood nursery.

From the audience, Dr. David Eckiss felt that the Mayor was talking about two different subjects, and also had concern with removal of mature trees. Mayor Lambird countered that if no new trees were planted, there would not be any more mature trees. He also felt that disease in some trees should be considered.

Past that, the Mayor felt it was important to remember veterans who would otherwise be forgotten over time. Dr. Eckiss agreed.

Mayor Lambird told the Council that the VFW had found another place to go with their proposed memorial, but noted that the question still stood as to what the City should do with the broken fountain in the City Park. Councilwoman Henton felt it should be fixed.

At the last meeting, Councilman Eyer recalled hearing that the fountain had been leaking. He had since visited the fountain on a few different occasions, and standing water had been there each time. The perimeter seemed to be in good condition. He felt that a solution could be placement of a liner. If a new pump was also needed, he felt one should be purchased. Overall, the Councilman felt the fountain was a “heritage feature” of the City Park.

Councilman Eyer also wanted to see budget line items increased for tree planting in the City’s parks. He recalled that the City had a tree nursery at one time with about 500 trees. None of them survived, but he noted that interest existed.

Councilman McLaughlin was confused about sudden concern over the City Park fountain. Since he moved to Olney 12 years ago, the fountain never seemed to be a priority. He wondered why the fountain suddenly became important once the VFW wanted to place a memorial there. Councilwoman Henton agreed.

The Councilman also felt that the VFW’s original desire to have the memorial at the City Park was a great idea, especially around Fair Week. Overall, he felt it would be a much better feature that a non-working fountain and a couple of picnic tables.

Councilman Eyer wondered why the fountain had degraded. He was curious if it was a lack of attention or funds. Past that, he stated that he was in strong support of placement of a veterans memorial, but not at the site the VFW had presented. He pointed out that there were several acres in other parks that were unused.

Councilwoman Fehrenbacher asked what Mr. Zuber had found out about the lease agreement for the Angel of Hope Memorial. Mr. Zuber indicated he had not yet had a chance to look into that agreement. He added that if Prevailing Wage was no longer an issue, then there would not be much use in researching other lease agreements.

Referencing an online GIS map, Councilwoman Henton felt that the area directly south of the VFW’s original proposed site would be suitable. Councilwoman Fehrenbacher believed that area was part of the land leased by the Fair Board.

Councilman McLaughlin told everyone that he wanted the City to really work with the VFW on finding a suitable location that would work well for everyone. The Council agreed.

AGENDA #9 “REPORTS FROM ELECTED AND APPOINTED OFFICIALS”

9-A “Status Report-City Manager” Mr. Barker had nothing additional to report.

9-B “RCDC Report” Mr. Yockey told the Council that the Richland County CEO would be hosting a Harlem Wizards event on January 10, 2020. The event would be suitable for all ages, and additional information could be found on Facebook.

9-C “Chamber of Commerce Report” Councilwoman Fehrenbahcer reported that the evening of December 6, 2019, was Moonlight Madness in downtown Olney. She had talked to many people that really enjoyed the event.

9-E “Tourism Board Report” Councilwoman Henton showed the Council a new childrens book that had been written about Olney’s white squirrels. The author was from Cincinnati, Ohio, and the book was about the adventures of a white squirrel named Olney Squirrelson. The book was available for sale at Wildwoods Gallery & Framing.

AGENDA #10 “PUBLIC COMMENTS/PRESENTATIONS” Councilman McLaughlin, also a member of the Olney Rotary, thanked the City of Olney, the Olney Police Department, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, the Olney Rotary, and the Olney FFA for their assistance with this year’s Christmas Parade. Due to the inclement weather and needing to utilize the rain date, the planning was more stressful that usual. Originally the parade had 84 entries, and only 10 of those could not make it on the rain date.

Mayor Lambird thanked the Councilman for his work, and Mrs. Sterchi for her assistance.

AGENDA #11 “CLOSED SESSION: SALE OR LEASE PRICE OF REAL PROPERTY; ACQUISITION OF REAL PROPERTY; APPOINTMENT, EMPLOYMENT, COMPENSATION, AND PERFORMANCE OF SPECIFIC EMPLOYEES” Councilman McLaughlin moved to adjourn to closed session to discuss sale or lease price of real property; acquisition of real property; and appointment, employment, compensation, and performance of specific employees, seconded by Councilwoman Fehrenbacher. A majority affirmative voice vote was received.

Councilmen Eyer, McLaughlin, Councilwomen Fehrenbacher, Henton, Mayor Lambird, City Manager Barker, City Attorney Zuber, City Treasurer Guinn, and City Clerk Sterchi left the Council Chambers at 8:42 p.m.

AGENDA #12 “RECONVENE OPEN SESSION” Upon return of those who were in closed session to the Council Chambers, Councilwoman Fehrenbacher moved to enter back into open session, seconded by Councilwoman Henton. A majority affirmative voice vote was received. Open session resumed at 9:01 p.m.

12-A “Resolution: Authorize Destruction of Closed Session Audio” The Council was provided with a proposed resolution to authorize the destruction of closed session audio.

The Council wished to handle 12-A and 12-B together.

Councilwoman Fehrenbacher moved to approve 2019-R-86 (Resolution: Authorize Destruction of Closed Session Audio) and 2019-R-87 (Resolution: Authorize Release of Closed Session Minutes), seconded by Councilwoman Henton. A majority affirmative voice vote was received.

12-B “Resolution: Authorize Release of Closed Session Minutes” The Council was provided with a proposed resolution that would authorize release of closed session minutes.

Action on this item was taken under 12-A.

Before adjourning, Mr. Barker told the Council that he had been approached by an individual that submitted a proposal for painting of the downtown planters. The Friends of Olney and the Chamber of Commerce had been discussing replacement of the planters, and were working on a plan. Since Mr. Barker received this painting proposal, he felt he should ask if the Council wished for the Friends of Olney and the Chamber of Commerce to continue working on their plans, or if the City would rather pursue the individual’s proposal for painting. Most of the Council stated they wished for the Friends of Olney and the Chamber of Commerce to continue.

Councilwoman Henton pointed out that when the planters were moved, they were moved using heavy equipment and a chain. She felt the process of moving planters would damage any paint.

Mayor Lambird wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

AGENDA #13 “ADJOURN” With no further business to discuss, Councilwoman Fehrenbacher moved to adjourn, seconded by Councilwoman Henton. A majority affirmative voice vote was received.

The meeting adjourned at 9:11 p.m.

http://www.ci.olney.il.us/cc%20Dec%209%202019.pdf