City Council

PROCEEDINGS OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PEKIN, ILLINOIS, HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF CITY HALL 111 S. CAPITOL ST ON TUESDAY, MAY 26, 2026 AT 5:30 PM MAYOR MARY J. BURRESS PRESIDING Pledge of Allegiance The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor Pro Tem Phillips. Call to Order City Clerk, Ms. Nicole Stewart, confirmed all Council Members were physically present and logged in except for Mayor Burress who was absent. Mayor Pro Tem Phillips declared a quorum and opened the meeting at 5:30 PM. Attendee Name Organization Title Status Arrived Rick Hilst City of Pekin Council Member Present 5:30 PM Karen Hohimer City of Pekin Council Member Present 5:30 PM Dave Nutter City of Pekin Council Member Present 5:30 PM Mary Burress City of Pekin Mayor Absent --:-- Jimmie Fletcher, City of Pekin Council Member Present 5:30 PM Jr. John P Abel City of Pekin Council Member Present 5:30 PM Peg Phillips City of Pekin Mayor Pro Tem Present 5:30 PM Approve Agenda RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS) MOVER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel SECONDER: Council Member Karen Hohimer AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Hohimer, Mayor Pro Tem Phillips, Council Member Fletcher ABSENT: Mayor Mary Burress Approval of Minutes 4.1. City Council - Regular Meeting Minutes - May 11, 2026 RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS)  MOVER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel SECONDER: Council Member Karen Hohimer AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Hohimer, Mayor Pro Tem Phillips, Council Member Fletcher ABSENT: Mayor Mary Burress Public Input Gary Lambert addressed the Council regarding the newly approved senior citizen solid waste discount program. He stated that, despite Council Members indicating they would not personally take advantage of the discount, the application process requires residents to provide proof of age, property tax information, and, in some cases, trust and beneficiary documentation. Mr. Lambert expressed concern that the process creates unnecessary obstacles for a relatively small benefit, particularly for residents with mobility limitations. He also commented on increasing utility costs, noting that Ameren rates and the City’s electric aggregation rate were both increasing. Mr. Lambert asked whether the City receives compensation from the aggregation provider and stated his understanding that it does not. City Manager John Dossey explained staff were processing approximately 30 applications per day while balancing their regular duties. Roger Brotherton provided an update on the recent Cruise-In on the River event, reporting that it was highly successful. He shared a commemorative event shirt with the Council and noted strong participation from attendees, food vendors, and entertainment. Mr. Brotherton thanked Schnucks, A-Z Rental, the City Council, and the Mayor for their support. He also reported that Bradley University had contacted the museum regarding a future tour program planned for September. Adam Rogers asked several questions regarding Tax Increment Financing agreements, including whether businesses face consequences if they leave before completing redevelopment agreements. He also asked about the Court Street construction project and expressed concerns regarding traffic conditions at the intersection of 14th Street and Court Street. Additionally, he inquired about the City’s tree removal contracts. City Manager Dossey responded that the Court Street project remains a major construction effort and advised that portions of the roadway would be closed from 5:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on on Wednesday and Friday this week. John McNish raised questions regarding several agenda items, including Community Development Block Grant funding allocations, assistance for homeless veterans, and ongoing ADA-related litigation. He expressed concern that more resources should be directed toward neighborhood improvements rather than nonprofit organizations. Mr. McNish also questioned the future of the wastewater treatment plant, the use of City employees as references on quotes, legal fee expenditures, audit costs, and requested consideration of a four-way stop at 14th Street and Court Street. Ms. Lynn commended the City’s efforts to remove dilapidated houses and improve neighborhoods. She noted concerns about tall grass on vacant lots and requested additional information regarding discussions involving the wastewater treatment plant. Mayor Pro Tem Phillips announced an upcoming open house scheduled for June 11 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m with Illinois American Water. Ms. Lynn also inquired about ownership of vacant lots throughout the community. City Manager Mr. Dossey explained that ownership varies and that City-owned lots are generally marketed to developers for future use. Police Chief Ranney advised that properties with overgrown grass are placed on the City’s monthly mowing enforcement list. Consent Agenda RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS) MOVER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel SECONDER: Council Member Karen Hohimer AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Hohimer, Mayor Pro Tem Phillips, Council Member Fletcher ABSENT: Mayor Mary Burress Council Member Hilst requested that Consent Agenda Item 6.2 be placed at the beginning of New Business. 6.1. Financial Reports through April 30, 2026 6.3. Receive and File Proposals for 2026 Tree and Stump Removal Unfinished Business 7.1. Ordinance No. 4400-26/27 Approving a Second Amendment to the Fiscal Year 2027 Annual Budget RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS) MOVER: Council Member Jimmie Fletcher SECONDER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Hohimer, Mayor Pro Tem Phillips, Council Member Fletcher ABSENT: Mayor Mary Burress City Manager John Dossey explained that the ordinance had been tabled from the previous meeting and related to a proposed drainage improvement project associated with Tax Increment Financing funds. He asked Economic Development Director Josh Wray to provide additional details regarding the project area located behind the Cullinan development near Sunset Hills. Mr. Wray explained that the amendment addressed two separate items. First, it recognized additional property tax revenue available to the City following updated information received from Tazewell County after adoption of the budget. Second,  the amendment proposed adding approximately $2 million in capital expenditures to address long-term drainage and erosion issues in a creek area subject to review by the Army Corps of Engineers. Mr. Wray stated that the permitting process is expected to take between 12 and 18 months. Staff determined it would be more efficient to pursue a comprehensive drainage project while permits are being obtained rather than continue making temporary repairs and potentially revisit the area again within a few years. Council Member Nutter sought clarification regarding the relationship between the drainage project and the nearby development project. Mr. Wray explained that the developer would still be required to complete stormwater improvements for the private development regardless of the City’s actions. The City’s proposed drainage improvements would occur concurrently but would not delay the private project. He further noted that temporary occupancy permits could be issued while stormwater improvements are underway, but final occupancy would require completion of the required improvements. Council Member Hilst asked whether the drainage project and the private development improvements were related. Mr. Wray explained they are separate projects but that efficiencies could be gained by completing them during the same permitting process. He stated the City’s portion of the work would include construction of a retention area within the creek corridor and efforts to address ongoing erosion concerns that have impacted nearby properties. Mr. Wray noted staff had discussed addressing the issue for several years and believed the timing was appropriate. Council Member Hilst also inquired about ownership of Sunset Lake. Mr. Wray explained that the lake is owned by Tazewell County through a trustee arrangement and stated he was unaware of any formal agreement between the City and the lake ownership entity. In response to additional questions regarding sediment buildup concerns raised by a resident at a previous meeting, Mr. Wray indicated that ownership and maintenance responsibilities could present an interesting legal issue, although the proposed drainage improvements may provide some benefit to the area. New Business 6.2. Accounts Payable Paid Proof List through May 19, 2026 RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS) MOVER: Council Member Jimmie Fletcher SECONDER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Hohimer, Mayor Pro Tem Phillips, Council Member Fletcher ABSENT: Mayor Mary Burress Council Member Hilst questioned a payment listed in the accounts payable report to Turner’s Garage Door totaling approximately $17,000 for overhead doors and  door openers. He asked why the purchase had not been brought before the City Council for approval. Fire Chief Trent Reeise explained that the project originally involved replacing a single overhead door and opener at a City facility. Quotes for the work were obtained, and Turner’s Garage Door was the lowest bidder. During the period between ordering the equipment and installation, a second overhead door opener, which was original to the building, failed. As a result, staff determined it was necessary to replace the second door opener as well while the contractor was already on site. Chief Reeise clarified that the original purchase was below the threshold requiring Council approval and was initiated as a single project. The additional work became necessary after the second opener failed. Had the project originally been planned as a combined replacement exceeding the approval threshold, it would have been presented to the Council. Staff further noted that multiple quotes had been obtained and that Turner’s Garage Door submitted the lowest proposal among the vendors contacted. 8.1. Ordinance No. 4404-26/27 Amending Various Residential Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Redevelopment Agreements to Correct the Developer Annual Reimbursement Share per Council Policy RESULT: PASSED (5 TO 1) MOVER: Council Member Jimmie Fletcher SECONDER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hohimer, Mayor Pro Tem Phillips, Council Member Fletcher NAYS: Council Member Hilst ABSENT: Mayor Burress Economic Development Director Josh Wray explained that a local developer brought to the City’s attention that the residential TIF program had been applied inconsistently with prior Council policy. Mr. Wray stated that previous Council action intended homeowners to receive a reimbursement equal to 67.5% of the total tax increment, which equates to 90% of the net tax increment after tax distributions. However, several agreements had incorrectly referenced 67.5% of the net tax increment. Mr. Wray recommended correcting the language in 21 existing agreements to align with Council’s original intent. Council Member Hilst questioned whether the agreements had been reviewed by legal counsel prior to execution. Mr. Wray responded that the agreements were drafted by Jacob & Klein. Council Member Fletcher confirmed that the amendment would not create additional long-term costs for the City, but would correct the paperwork and reimbursement timing.  Council Member Nutter inquired whether reimbursements had already been issued under some agreements and whether property owners would need to sign amended agreements. Mr. Wray confirmed that a small number of agreements had already become effective and that amended agreements would require signatures from the participating property owners. 8.2. Ordinance No. 4405-26/27 Approving and Authorizing a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Redevelopment Agreement with Rustic Roots Studio for Rehabilitation of 513 Court Street RESULT: TABLED TO JUNE 8, 2026 (5 TO 1) MOVER: Council Member Dave Nutter SECONDER: Council Member Jimmie Fletcher AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Mayor Pro Tem Phillips, Council Member Fletcher NAYS: Council Member Hohimer ABSENT: Mayor Burress A motion was made by Council Member Fletcher seconded by Council Member Hohimer to approve the ordinance. Mr. Wray presented a proposed TIF redevelopment agreement with Rustic Roots Studio for improvements to the property at 513 Court Street. He explained that the request was being considered through the City’s business assistance program, which is intended to support the rehabilitation of deteriorating properties and retain existing businesses. Council Member Nutter expressed concern regarding water infiltration issues affecting the building and questioned whether planned alley improvements would address the problem. Mr. Wray explained that the proposed project focused on a deteriorated rear structure and roof area rather than the alley itself. Chief Building Official Nic Maquet added that water appeared to be entering through the rear structure and flat roof area. Council Member Abel questioned whether modifications to the roof could provide a shorter-term solution and noted that neighboring businesses could potentially experience similar issues. Council Member Nutter initially made and later rescinded a motion to table the item before ultimately renewing his request to table the ordinance until the next meeting to allow additional discussion with the contractor. Council Member Fletcher seconded the motion. Mayor Pro Tem Phillips questioned whether the agreement required the business to remain in operation. Mr. Wray stated that the agreement requires the salon to continue operating within the City for a minimum of three years. 8.3. Ordinance No. 4406-26/27 Approving and Authorizing a Real Estate Contract with Nicholas Wang to Sell City-Owned Property at Veterans Drive and 14th Street RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS) MOVER: Council Member Dave Nutter SECONDER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Hohimer, Mayor Pro Tem Phillips, Council Member Fletcher ABSENT: Mayor Mary Burress Mr. Wray presented a real estate contract with Nicholas Wang for the purchase of approximately 1.5 acres of City-owned property located near Veterans Drive and 14th Street. He explained that while the overall parcel contains approximately three acres, a portion of the property is not suitable for development due to existing natural gas easements. 8.4. Resolution No. 4407-26/27 Approving the City of Pekin Community Development Block Grant Program Year 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS) MOVER: Council Member Dave Nutter SECONDER: Council Member Karen Hohimer AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Hohimer, Mayor Pro Tem Phillips, Council Member Fletcher ABSENT: Mayor Mary Burress Economic Development Director Josh Wray presented the City’s Annual Action Plan for the 2026-2027 Community Development Block Grant program, noting that HUD had allocated approximately $436,000 to the City. He reviewed the proposed projects and funding categories included in the plan and reminded the Council that a public hearing had been held at the previous meeting. Mayor Pro Tem Phillips asked whether local charitable organizations had been consulted regarding community needs. Mr. Wray stated that outreach had been conducted with organizations including the Continuum of Care, the Salvation Army, and the Housing Authority, and that no significant new priorities had been identified beyond those already included in the City’s planning process. Council Member Nutter referenced prior discussions regarding homeless veterans and noted that, according to information he had received, local veterans in need had housing available. Mr. Wray indicated that the plan would be brought back for further consideration. 8.5. Resolution No. 433-26/27 Approving Task Order #6 with Giffin Reeise Engineering for the Court Street Stormwater Project RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS)  MOVER: Council Member Dave Nutter SECONDER: Council Member Rick Hilst AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Hohimer, Mayor Pro Tem Phillips, Council Member Fletcher ABSENT: Mayor Mary Burress City Manager John Dossey explained that the resolution was related to the previously approved budget amendment and would authorize an amendment to the existing task order with Giffin Reeise Engineering to complete engineering work associated with the stormwater improvements connected to the Graves development project, including a detention pond and a retention area where a pipe has become exposed due to erosion and water runoff. Council Member Nutter questioned the financial information included in the agenda packet, specifically asking how the requested amount of $150,000 related to the line-item budget of $210,000 and the reported remaining balance of $165,000. Economic Development Director Wray clarified that the $165,000 represented the amount currently available in the budget line item prior to approval of the request and not the remaining balance after the expenditure. Finance Director Eric Dubrowski further explained that the total budgeted amount was $210,000, expenditures to date totaled $45,000, leaving a current balance of $165,000, from which the requested $150,000 would be funded. Council Member Nutter thanked staff for the clarification. 8.6. Resolution No. 434-26/27 Approving Task Order 25-01A Amending Maurer- Stutz Task Order 25-01 for Court Street Phase 3 Engineering Services RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS) MOVER: Council Member Rick Hilst SECONDER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Hohimer, Mayor Pro Tem Phillips, Council Member Fletcher ABSENT: Mayor Mary Burress 8.7. Resolution No. 435-26/27 Approving and Authorizing Lease of Solid Waste Trucks from Key Equipment and Supply Co. RESULT: APPROVED AS AMENDED (5 TO 1) MOVER: Council Member Rick Hilst SECONDER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hohimer, Mayor Pro Tem Phillips, Council Member Fletcher NAYS: Council Member Hilst ABSENT: Mayor Burress A motion was made by Council Member Nutter seconded by Council Member Abel to amend the resolution to authorize the lease of three trucks instead of two. RESULT: Passed (5 TO 1) MOVER: Council Member Dave Nutter SECONDER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hohimer, Mayor Pro Tem Phillips, Council Member Fletcher NAYS: Council Member Hilst ABSENT: Mayor Burress City Manager John Dossey explained that Public Works Director Simon Grimm had previously provided Council with a detailed memorandum regarding the proposed lease and deferred to him for further explanation. Mr. Grimm stated that staff was seeking authorization to lease two new side-load solid waste trucks to replace two of the three currently leased units. He explained that the existing trucks utilize a drop-frame chassis with proprietary parts that have proven difficult and costly to maintain, particularly due to damage sustained at the landfill and limited parts availability. He further noted that staff wished to secure replacement vehicles before new federal emissions standards take effect in 2027, which could increase costs and maintenance requirements. Council Member Nutter stated that he continued to struggle with the proposal because an efficiency study of the Solid Waste Division had not yet been completed and questioned whether the City should be planning for two trucks or three. He asked whether all three leased trucks should be replaced now to avoid future costs associated with the upcoming emissions regulations. Mr. Grimm responded that staff does need three side-load trucks and that the recommendation for two trucks represented a middle-ground approach due to budget considerations. Mr. Brad Franklin of Key Equipment and Supply Company explained that manufacturers are nearing the end of their production allocations for current- emission chassis and that there was a limited window remaining to secure trucks under the existing standards. Council Member Nutter inquired about the possibility of leasing three trucks instead of two and asked about potential pricing. Mr. Franklin explained that pricing had already been established on a per-unit basis through the Sourcewell contract and that trade-in values and buyback amounts had been calculated.Finance Director Eric Dubrowski noted that the proposal would not impact the current fiscal year budget and would primarily affect Fiscal Year 2028 and beyond. Council Member Abel expressed support for obtaining all three trucks now, citing  uncertainty regarding future engine and emissions costs.City Attorney Jim Vasselli advised that amending the resolution from two trucks to three trucks would not create an Open Meetings Act issue because the agenda item clearly informed the public that the City was considering acquiring solid waste trucks.Council Member Nutter then moved to amend the resolution to authorize the lease of three trucks instead of two, citing concerns over future emissions requirements and potential cost increases. Council Member Abel seconded the motion. During discussion, Mayor Pro Tem Phillips questioned whether the amendment should include a not-to-exceed cost provision. Attorney Vasselli indicated that the revised resolution would be drafted to incorporate appropriate not-to-exceed language consistent with the proposal and Council discussion. The amendment passed by a vote of 5-1, with Council Member Hilst voting no. Following approval of the amendment, Council Member Hilst requested additional clarification regarding why staff was recommending a lease rather than an outright purchase. Mr. Grimm explained that the recommendation was primarily based on the significant cost of the vehicles and the ability to spread those costs over future budgets, although staff could evaluate purchase options if directed by the Council. 8.8. Resolution No. 436-26/27 Approving and Authorizing Purchase of Street Sweeper from EJ Equipment Inc. RESULT: FAILED (3 TO 3) MOVER: Council Member Rick Hilst SECONDER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Council Member Hohimer, Mayor Pro Tem Phillips NAYS: Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Fletcher ABSENT: Mayor Burress City Manager Dossey presented the request for approval of a 2025 Tymco 500X street sweeper and noted that the proposed unit was a low hour display model being offered at a discount. He deferred to Public Works Director Simon Grimm for additional details. Mr. Grimm explained that the proposal was the second of two fleet-related items previously discussed with the Council. He stated that staff was recommending the purchase of the display-model street sweeper due to the deteriorating condition of the City’s current 2018 Tymco sweeper. He advised that the existing unit required approximately $23,000 in repairs and was only operating at an estimated 70 to 80 percent capacity. Mr. Grimm noted that the majority of the repair costs were associated with issues involving the sweeper head. He further explained that the proposed display unit was available at a discount of approximately $20,000 compared to ordering a new unit and that the City would receive a trade-in allowance of $70,000 for the current sweeper. He added that comparable quotes had been obtained, including one for the same model with an estimated 270-day lead time and another from a competing manufacturer at a higher cost.  Council Member Hilst stated that he would be more inclined to repair the existing street sweeper rather than spend significantly more money on a replacement. Council Member Nutter agreed and questioned whether the City could spend the estimated repair amount and continue using the current unit for an additional six months to a year. Mr. Grimm responded that while the current sweeper could potentially remain in service for that period, it would eventually need replacement, likely at a higher cost than the discounted display model being proposed. Mayor Pro Tem Phillips asked staff to clarify the cost-benefit analysis supporting the purchase of a new sweeper rather than repairing the existing equipment. Mr. Grimm explained that the decision was largely based on avoiding future price increases and taking advantage of the discounted display unit currently available. Council Member Karen Hohimer stated that, in her view, purchasing the new sweeper was preferable to continuing to invest in repairs, noting that repair costs often exceed initial estimates. Council Member Fletcher questioned the assumption that the existing sweeper would only remain viable for six months to a year. Mr. Grimm explained that the timeframe was an estimate and would depend on operating conditions. Council Member Fletcher suggested continuing repairs and replacing brushes as needed until roadway conditions improved, then reconsidering the purchase of a new machine. 8.9. Resolution No. 437-26/27 Awarding Proposal for Tree and Stump Removal Service to Topless Tree Service RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS) MOVER: Council Member Karen Hohimer SECONDER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Hohimer, Mayor Pro Tem Phillips, Council Member Fletcher ABSENT: Mayor Mary Burress City Manager Dossey reported that the City issued a request for proposals for tree and stump removal services and received two submissions. Public Works Director Simon Grimm explained that only two proposals were received because the requirement for 24-hour emergency on-call service limited the number of qualified vendors willing to participate. He stated that the proposals were evaluated through the standard selection process. Council Member Fletcher confirmed that Topless Tree Service is the City’s current provider, which Mr. Grimm verified. Council Member Nutter asked whether staff had considered maintaining a backup provider. Mr. Grimm responded that while multiple contractors could assist during  large emergency events, the Street Department would typically be the primary responder and staff could explore additional backup options in the future if directed. 8.10. Discussion on a Proposal for the Wastewater Collection and Treatment System City Manager John Dossey introduced representatives from Illinois American Water, including Chris Guy and Matt Light, and explained that preliminary discussions had taken place regarding a potential acquisition of the City’s wastewater treatment system. He stated that a more detailed proposal would be presented in June and noted that an open house was scheduled for June 11 at City Hall to provide additional information. He indicated that the City was seeking Council direction and public input as discussions move forward. Council Member Hohimer thanked staff and the presenters for earlier informational sessions, stating that she found the discussions helpful and supportive of continued exploration. Council Member Hilst asked how billing would function if the wastewater system were sold, noting that current utility billing includes both volumetric and capital improvement components. Mr. Guy explained that billing would be based on a per-gallon usage rate under Illinois Commerce Commission regulation, with a single consolidated charge, and that representatives would be available at the open house to provide individualized estimates based on customer usage. Council Member Hilst further asked about stormwater responsibilities, and Mr. Guy clarified that stormwater and combined sewer overflow responsibilities would remain with the City. Council Member Hilst expressed concern regarding potential additional fees and indicated he would bring further questions to the upcoming town hall meeting. Council Member Fletcher asked whether residents would receive one consolidated bill, which Mr. Guy confirmed, noting that billing would be unified. Council Member Nutter suggested ensuring that officials from neighboring North Pekin are notified, and City Manager Mr. Dossey confirmed that outreach to North Pekin was part of the City’s planned communication efforts. Mayor Pro Tem Phillips asked about adjustments to wastewater billing for seasonal usage fluctuations, and Mr. Light confirmed that usage averaging methods would continue to be applied. Any Other Business To Come Before The Council City Manager John Dossey announced upcoming items including an Illinois American Water open house scheduled for June 11 from 5pm to 7pm at City Hall. Mr. Dossey also announced that HR and IMRF representatives will available to discuss matters related to ending contracts with school districts at the bus department. He also noted Court Street construction closures on Wednesday and Friday from 5:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., advising use of alternate routes. He confirmed the closure area is between 8th and 10th Streets near CVS. He further announced an electronic waste recycling event scheduled for June 30 at Koch Street, requiring advance appointment registration. Mr. Dossey also addressed ongoing code enforcement matters related to Cranwill’s, noting continued compliance issues and that the property owners are being treated consistently under enforcement procedures, with reopening dependent on resolution of outstanding matters. City Finance Director Dubrowski reported that the FY2024 audit is nearing completion, with a presentation anticipated on June 22. City Manager Dossey added that significant audit progress has been made since 2023 due to improvements by finance staff and indicated the process is proceeding smoothly. Council Member Fletcher addressed concerns raised by Mr. Lambert regarding senior- related forms and encouraged public attendance at the Illinois American Water open house. He also noted challenges residents have experienced with dilapidated housing reporting and stated that most properties are already on enforcement lists and being addressed, requesting patience from the public. Council Member Hohimer congratulated Mr. Brotherton on a successful Cruise-In event. Council Member Nutter acknowledged Mr. Lambert’s concerns and agreed that corrections to the form may be needed, also raising questions about household-age considerations and discussing code enforcement concerns raised by neighbors. Mayor Pro Tem Phillips suggested clarifying that the form applies to owner-occupied properties and noted that county verification has already been completed. Executive Session 5 ILCS 120/2 (c) 10.1. Executive Session 5 ILCS 120/2(c) (2) Collective negotiating matters between the public body and its employees or their representatives, or deliberations concerning salary schedules for one or more classes of employees A motion was made by Council Member Hohimer seconded by Council Member Abel to move into Executive Session to discuss 5 ILCS 120/2 (c)(2) Collective negotiating matters between the public body and its employees or their representatives, or deliberations concerning salary schedules for one or more classes of employees at 7:41 PM. On roll call vote all present voted Aye. RESULT: PASSED (UNANIMOUS) MOVER: Council Member Karen Hohimer SECONDER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Hohimer, Mayor Pro Tem Phillips, Council Member Fletcher ABSENT: Mayor Mary Burress  Mayor Pro Tem Phillips announced that no action would be taken after Executive Session. Council returned to open session at 8:16 PM. Adjourn There being no further business to come to the Council a motion was made by Council Member Hohimer seconded by Council Member Abel to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried viva voce vote. Mayor Pro Tem Phillips adjourned the meeting at 8:17 PM. RESULT: PASSED (6 TO 0) MOVER: Council Member Karen Hohimer SECONDER: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem John Abel AYES: 1st Alternate Mayor Pro Tem Abel, Council Member Nutter, Council Member Hilst, Council Member Hohimer, Mayor Pro Tem Phillips, Council Member Fletcher NAYS: None ABSENT: Mayor Burress