East Central Reporter

City of Mattoon City Council met Sept. 19.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

The City Council of the City of Mattoon held a Regular City Council meeting in the Council Chambers of City Hall on September 19, 2023. Mayor Hall presided and called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.

Mayor Hall led the Pledge of Allegiance.

The following members of the Council answered roll call physically present in person: YEA Commissioner Jim Closson, YEA Commissioner Dave Cox, YEA Commissioner Sandra Graven, YEA Commissioner David Phipps and YEA Mayor Rick Hall.

Also physically present were City personnel: City Administrator Kyle Gill, City Attorney Daniel C. Jones, Finance Director/Treasurer Beth Wright, Arts & Tourism Director Angelia Burgett, Public Works Director Dean Barber, Fire Chief Jeff Hilligoss, Police Chief Sam Gaines, Code Enforcement Alex Benishek, and City Clerk Susan O’Brien.

Mayor Hall called for a moment of silence in honor of the passing of Kenneth Wooddell. Mayor Hall read the following proclamation:

PROCLAMATION

Kenneth Wooddell Day in the City of Mattoon

WHEREAS, Kenneth Wooddell touched the lives of countless individuals throughout the City of Mattoon; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Wooddell was a legendary sports broadcaster and remarkable community leader; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Wooddell served his Country during World War II, worked in radio broadcasting for 56 years, 40 years at WLBH, taught eight years in the Communications Department at Eastern Illinois University, was a 73-year member of the Mattoon Kiwanis, 75-year member of the Mattoon Masonic Lodge #260, member of the American Legion, Mattoon Association of Commerce, Mattoon Area Family YMCA as well as a charter member of the Mattoon Tourism Committee; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Wooddell was also inducted into the Illinois Baseball Hall of Fame and the Eastern Illinois Letterman’s Hall of Fame; and

WHEREAS, he was awarded many other honors including the IHSA Distinguished Service Award and Illinois Broadcaster Pioneer Award; and

WHEREAS, despite all of the awards he devoted to his career and community, Mr. Wooddell was truly a family man; and

WHEREAS, in his honor the City of Mattoon has befittingly named a new street within the Emerald Acres Sports Connection, which will hereafter be known as Wooddell Drive.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, that I, Rick Hall, Mayor of Mattoon, do hereby, recognize September 19, 2023 as Kenneth Wooddell Day in the City of Mattoon, and I call this observance to the attention of all of our citizens.

IN RECOGNITION THEREOF, I, Mayor Rick Hall, have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the City of Mattoon, Coles County, Illinois to be affixed this 19th day of September, 2023.

/s/ Rick Hall

Rick Hall

Mayor

City of Mattoon, Illinois

Mayor Hall presented the Proclamations to Mr. Wooddell’s sons, Ken and Gary.

CONSENT AGENDA

Mayor Hall seconded by Commissioner Cox moved to approve the consent agenda consisting of Regular Meeting minutes of September 5, 2023; bills and payroll for the first half of September 2023.

Bills and payroll for the first half of September, 2023

Mayor Hall declared the motion carried by the following omnibus vote: YEA Commissioner Closson, YEA Commissioner Cox, YEA Commissioner Graven, YEA Commissioner Phipps, YEA Mayor Hall.

PRESENTATIONS, PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS

This portion of the City Council meeting is reserved for persons who desire to address the Council. The Illinois Open Meetings Act mandates that the City Council may NOT take action on comments received on matters that have not been identified on this agenda, but the Council may direct staff to address the topic or refer the matter for action on the agenda for another meeting. Persons addressing the Council are requested to limit their presentations to three minutes and to avoid repetitious comments. We would also ask you to state your name and address for the record as well as stand when speaking.

Mayor Hall opened the floor for Public comments. Ms. Stacy Gramazio of Cypress Creek Renewables addressed the Council regarding Chamberlain Solar and its intension to submit another application when the State opens the permits; and explained its community involvement and advantages of their business.

Ms. Devyn Cox of Mattoon commented on concern over 24th Street and Champaign involving a bottleneck of traffic and safety hazard near Hawthorne School; and requested no parking on the east side of 24th Street between Richmond and Champaign Avenues. Council discussed the area with Ms. Cox. Mayor Hall stated contacts with the Police Department, Public Works and Eastern Illinois Area of Special Education could address the issue.

Manager Benishek introduced the AmeriCorps group and welcomed the diverse group who will prepare the trails at the Lake and volunteer for other community activities. Commissioner Cox inquired about their timeline with Manager Benishek stating through November 7th. Commissioner Closson inquired about their starting point of the trail by the cemetery with Manager Benishek stating yes. Mayor Hall noted his earlier meeting with them and stated they were good people. Council welcomed the group.

NEW BUSINESS

Mayor Hall noted the first three motions on the agenda (Ordinance No. 2023-5470: Approving the Tax Increment Redevelopment Plan and Project for the Remington Road Redevelopment Project Area; 2. Ordinance No. 2023-5471: Designating the Remington Road Redevelopment Project Area boundary;3. Ordinance No. 2023-5472: Adopting Tax Increment Financing (TIF) for the Remington Road Redevelopment Project Area) would not be considered tonight. Administrator Gill noted approval of the subdivision was required before considering the first three; and the surveying group had not provided the vellum copies for filing with the County Recorder but should be ready by next council meeting. Mayor Hall added the delay would not affect the schedule.

Mayor Hall seconded by Commissioner Cox moved to adopt Resolution No. 2023-3262, approving the support and adoption of joining the Central Illinois Land Bank Authority (CILBA) in order to address the vacant, abandoned and deteriorating properties within the municipality’s jurisdiction.

CITY OF MATTOON, ILLINOIS

RESOLUTION NO. 2023-3262

RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT AND ADOPTION

WHEREAS, the City of Mattoon aspires to more effectively address vacant, abandoned, and deteriorating (VAD) properties within its jurisdiction; and,

WHEREAS, the City of Mattoon is aware of the numerous benefits land banks with Home Rule authority have as relates to the acquisition and disposition of property; and,

WHEREAS, the Central Illinois Land Bank Authority (CILBA) is a land bank located in our region with such authority and possesses a proven track record of addressing VAD properties; and,

WHEREAS, CILBA will soon hold a vote to determine if the City of Mattoon shall join as a member.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Mattoon, Coles County, Illinois, that

1) In the event that the City of Mattoon is added as a member of CILBA, both the City Administrator and Community Development and Planning Manager, or their designees, shall have the authority to represent the City of Mattoon in all affairs related to such a partnership.

2) This resolution shall be in full force and effective immediately upon its adoption.

Upon motion by Mayor Hall, seconded by Commissioner Cox , adopted this 19th day of September , 2023, by a roll call vote, as follows:

AYES (Names): Commissioner Closson, Commissioner Cox, Commissioner Graven, Commissioner Phipps, Mayor Hall

NAYS (Names): None

ABSENT (Names): None

Approved this 19th day of September , 2023.

/s/Rick Hall

Rick Hall, Mayor

City of Mattoon, Coles County, Illinois

ATTEST:

/s/Susan J. O'Brien

Susan J. O’Brien, City Clerk

APPROVED AS TO FORM:

/s/Dan C. Jones

Dan C. Jones, City Attorney

Recorded in the Municipality’s Records on ___________________09-19_, 2023.

Mayor Hall opened the floor for comments. Commissioner Closson stated this should speed up the process. Manager Benishek noted the resolution approves the City to join the organization, which would allow the City to join. He added the City would need to take official action to have someone from the City to be on the CILBA Board. Commissioner Phipps inquired as to an attachment to the resolution with Manager Benishek noting a fact sheet previously distributed at a council meeting and the CILBA needed to take action first. Mayor Hall stated the objective of the CILBA as a tool to speed up the process.

Mayor Hall declared the motion carried by the following vote: YEA Commissioner Closson, YEA Commissioner Cox, YEA Commissioner Graven, YEA Commissioner Phipps, YEA Mayor Hall.

Commissioner Phipps seconded by Commissioner Cox moved to approve Council Decision Request 2023-2415, approving the cost proposal in the amount of $20,000 from Milano & Grunloh Engineers for the preparation of plans and specifications for a storm water detention basin for the Coles Centre Business Park; and authorizing the Public Works Director to sign the Project Authorization Form.

Mayor Hall opened the floor for questions with no response.

Mayor Hall declared the motion carried by the following vote: YEA Commissioner Closson, YEA Commissioner Cox, YEA Commissioner Graven, YEA Commissioner Phipps, YEA Mayor Hall.

Commissioner Cox seconded by Commissioner Phipps moved to approve Council Decision Request 2023-2416, approving a $2,000 grant by the Tourism Advisory Committee from FY23/24 hotel/motel tax funds to the Lincoln Log Cabin Foundation in support of the Harvest Frolic to be held September 23-24, 2023; and authorizing the mayor to sign the agreement.

Mayor Hall opened the floor for questions/comments. Director Burgett noted the long-time recipient which has upped the level of activities this year.

Mayor Hall declared the motion carried by the following vote: YEA Commissioner Closson, YEA Commissioner Cox, YEA Commissioner Graven, YEA Commissioner Phipps, YEA Mayor Hall.

Commissioner Graven seconded by Commissioner Cox moved to approve Council Decision Request 2023-2417, approving the water and sewer billing adjustment in the amount of $1,101.48 on behalf of Amber French located at 504 South 6th Street.

Mayor Hall opened the floor for comments with no response.

Mayor Hall declared the motion carried by the following vote: YEA Commissioner Closson, YEA Commissioner Cox, YEA Commissioner Graven, YEA Commissioner Phipps, YEA Mayor Hall.

Mayor Hall seconded by commissioner Graven moved to approve Council Decision Request 2023-2418, authorizing the employment of Michelle Standley as an Administrative Assistant with experience and an annual salary of $36,296.00 in the City Clerk’s Office, effective October 09, 2023, pending a drug screen and background check.

Mayor Hall opened the floor for comments. Administrator Gill explained the interview process and Ms. Standley’s background, adding an asset to the City.

Mayor Hall declared the motion carried by the following vote: YEA Commissioner Closson, YEA Commissioner Cox, YEA Commissioner Graven, YEA Commissioner Phipps, YEA Mayor Hall.

Commissioner Phipps seconded by Commissioner Closson moved to Approve Council Decision Request 2023-2419, approving the promotion of Public Works Laborer Waylon James to Lead Tree Foreman effective September 25, 2023.

Mayor Hall opened the floor for comments. Director Barber provided accolades for Mr. James and his diverse set of talents.

Mayor Hall declared the motion carried by the following vote: YEA Commissioner Closson, YEA Commissioner Cox, YEA Commissioner Graven, YEA Commissioner Phipps, YEA Mayor Hall.

DEPARTMENT REPORTS:

CITY ADMINISTRATOR noted meetings by phone and Zoom, upcoming IML Conference to be attended by Mayor Hall, Commissioner Phipps and himself, normal phone calls and complaints which were business as usual. Mayor Hall opened the floor for questions with no response.

CITY ATTORNEY updated Council on the Quakenbush case with November 2nd as a date for Mr. Quakenbush’s compliance and Judge Bovard’s request to see photos with drone photos as a possibility and no fixed date to end. Mayor Hall opened the floor for questions. Commissioner Cox inquired whether there was an end timeframe or something ongoing with Attorney Jones stating an ongoing issue until Judge Bovard eventually fines Mr. Quakenbush.

CITY CLERK thanked Council for approving the hiring of Ms. Standley; and noted busy with daily office business and keeping up with new hire processing and insurance. Mayor Hall opened the floor for questions with no response.

FINANCE distributed and reviewed the August Financial Report, revenues/expenditures, cash position, transfer of funds to Trustee for Remington Road taxes approximately $459,973, Revenue Tracking Report, Annual Treasurer’s Report published on 09/14/2023, TIF payments disbursed and working with the auditors. Commissioner Phipps inquired as to the funds to the Trustee with Treasurer & Director Wright explaining the timing of receipt of funds and disbursement of funds with funds not remitted until after the fiscal year. Mayor Hall opened the floor for questions with no response.

PUBLIC WORKS noted very busy with receiving three commercial development plans, four sets of plans from consultants to review and three plans for the sports complex all to review. Mayor Hall opened the floor for questions with no response.

FIRE reported on calls for service, Best Western fire alarm issues, fire hydrant testing and fire extinguisher training at Kal Kan. Mayor Hall opened the floor for questions with no response.

POLICE explained the effects of the Bail Reform Safety Act passed by the State and taking effect on Monday resulting with many uncertain interpretations; and receiving of radio repeaters and their fantastic clarity. Commissioner Cox inquired as to the current state of citizen safety with the Bail Reform. Chief Gaines explained victims of certain crimes not having the “cool down period” previously observed and expectation of major changes in the future. Commissioner Closson inquired as to second assaults and having the advantage of body camera footage. Chief Gaines noted a habitual offender could be taken to jail and continuation of booking as a part of the court process. Mayor Hall noted the time that would take to figure out/work out.

ARTS AND TOURISM distributed and reviewed reports of the 4th of July, received payment from Charleston and explained the volunteer shortage; and announced the return of the Santa House during Lightworks hours, KC Summers sponsoring Celebrity Creative Craig Titley event, and preparing for the Business Expo. Mayor Hall opened the floor for questions with no response.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT announced the preparations for the AmeriCorps group and OSLAD grant, an $80,000 housing donation from MAID, Lake Land College students assisting with surveying, Land Bank dialogues, and Coles County Regional Planning and Development Commission discussions on their comprehensive plan. Mayor Hall opened the floor for questions with no response.

COMMENTS BY THE COUNCIL

Commissioner Closson thanked Manager Benishek for helping the AmeriCorps group; updated Council on the pickleball courts and thanked Director Barber for his work; noted Lake Supervisor John Wurtsbaugh’s good plan with the Lakes’ rules and regulations while educating the 108 Leaseholders; and expectations of the OSLAD grant to pave the parking lot. Commissioner Cox announced the opportunity to speak with Airport Authority Director Andrew Fearn’s input on the 4th of July fireworks event and efforts for next year, complimented and appreciated the Mayor on the Wooddell proclamation, and provided accolades for Mr. Wooddell. Commissioner Graven had no further comments. Commissioner Phipps complimented Manager Benishek on the Land Bank; had met the AmeriCorps group and two new engineer technicians; and announced his attendance at the IML Conference this week and citizens’ issues. Mayor Hall announced his upcoming IML attendance and his nomination on the IML Board of Directors focusing on participation on rural development, and meeting with Chris Davis of the Haven.

Commissioner Cox seconded by Commissioner Phipps moved to adjourn at 7:20 p.m.

Mayor Hall declared the motion carried by the following vote: YEA Commissioner Closson, YEA Commissioner Cox, NAY Commissioner Graven, YEA Commissioner Phipps, YEA Mayor Hall.

https://mattoon.illinois.gov/download/city-council-meeting-2023-09-19/