Grundy Reporter

City of Highland City Council met Nov. 4.

Here is the minutes provided by the council:

Mayor Michaelis called the Regular Session to order at 7:00pm. Councilmembers Sloan, Frey, Bellm and Hipskind were present. Others in attendance were City Attorney McGinley, Directors Conrad, Gillespie, Imming, Kim, Rosen, and Slover; EMS/Fire Chief Wilson, Coordinator Hubbard, B&Z Administrator Speraneo, Treasurer Foehner, Deputy City Clerk Hediger, City Clerk Bellm, 8 citizens, and one member of the news media.

MINUTES

Councilman Frey made a motion to approve the minutes of the October 21, 2019 Regular Session as attached; seconded by Councilwoman Bellm. Roll Call Vote: Councilmembers Sloan, Frey, Bellm and Hipskind voted aye, none nay. Motion carried.

PROCLAMATIONS

Mayor Michaelis read a document proclaiming November, National Veterans and Military Families Month in the City of Highland.

Mayor Michaelis read a document proclaiming the week of November 18 - 22, 2019 as Youth Appreciation Week in the City of Highland. 

PUBLIC FORUM

Citizens’ Requests and Comments:

VFW Sign Placement Request – Dave Schmidt, Vice President of the Board of Directors of VFW Post 5694, explained we have a group made up of people that belong to VFW Post that belong to the board of directors to oversee the property, dance hall, and bar. This was brought about years ago when the VFW bought a lot of property and built the first post. Then they purchased the property where the second post was built. At the same time, there were other posts having problems and they went under, and the National VFW came in and attached to their assets. Highland did not want the National VFW to come in and attach to their assets, so they became a corporation. Everyone that is a member of the post of Highland is member of the corporation. We host several events to raise funds to maintain the property. We are having comedy nights and other events to promote the post. We are not along a major thoroughfare. So, we need ways to advertise and bring people in. We got permission from the property owner at the corner of Poplar and VFW Road. I understand we have to have permission to put up a banner to advertise activities at the corner. It would be located right on the corner of Poplar and VFW Road, on the south side, but far enough back to prevent blocking the view of anyone going north on Poplar. We will put up and take down when no longer necessary. It will only be 4’tall by 8’ long. It is not going to be a permanent sign, but we would like to have that permission.

Mayor Michaelis stated I spoke at length with the city attorney regarding this, with regards to our sign ordinance. City Attorney McGinley explained we have received a couple of complaints about the signage. If there is a way to move it back, and it is temporary signage, which comes down periodically. Mr. Schmidt stated there is a yucca bush that is behind the banner, which sticks out further. Mayor Michaelis asked if the house authorizing this banner to go on their property is in city limits. Chief Conrad stated I was just thinking that and will have to check into that.

Councilwoman Bellm asked how many times a year. Mr. Schmidt reported we are having a comedy night on November 23 that we are trying to advertise. Councilwoman Bellm asked about the fish fries. Mr. Schmidt replied we don’t really have to advertise those. People just don’t seem to be turning out, because they do not know they are going on. Councilwoman Sloan asked is the banner same as what was out there for the meat shoot. Mr. Schmidt replied no. The brewery distributors are not allowed to put the name of the place on there.

Chief Conrad clarified for the council that the first three houses from VFW Road on that side are in the city limits. Building & Zoning Administrator Breann Speraneo concurred the corner properties are in the city limits. City Attorney McGinley stated Mr. Schmidt is asking for a variance. Breann explained we do have a special promotion provision that allows for 14 days per year. However, if on residential private property, we lose our ability to enforce it. Councilman Hipskind asked Mr. Schmidt if it would be a huge problem to move it over a few feet or angle it more so people can see around it. Mr. Schmidt stated with the great big yucca bush we cannot move it a lot. Councilman Hipskind stated it is not fair to vote on this. For the people that are opposed to it, we are not providing them an opportunity to voice their opposition. This is a code enforcement issue. Mr. Schmidt stated if we need to move it back a couple of feet I will make this happen. Councilman Hipskind stated we do not oppose this. But, if it obstructs peoples view, it needs to come down. Supervisor Speraneo reported I drove out there a few weeks ago. Where the banner was at, there is a very tall plant behind it. I, personally, did not have an issue with the placement of the banner. If moved a couple of feet to the east, it would not obstruct any views. With the special promotion provision, it would allow for fourteen days per year. With this, the City manager does have the authority to allow approval. With slight movement to the east, by a few feet, we do not have an issue with it from a code enforcement stance. Councilwoman Bellm asked how they are looking at having these banners up. Mr. Schmidt said just a few times a year, for a few days. We have used this man’s property for other signage by other residents and real estate signage. Mayor Michaelis suggested Mr. Schmidt work with Breann. City Attorney McGinley suggested the council vote on this, so it does not set a precedence for people to just put signs out there. Roll Call Vote: Councilmembers Sloan, Frey, Bellm and Hipskind voted aye, none nay. Motion carried.

Jerome “Blackie” Kuhl thanked the council for taking care of things with the previous issue, with getting those people and their businesses involved. Thank you for doing that. I would like to know about the sign on 12th street that tells you how fast you are going. Couldn’t you put one on Lindenthal to see how fast people are going? Not sure why you put it on a street near a dead end. You got money and clout, and big fancy uniforms. People like to talk things over. Send those people out and talk to all the people all year around. You do that when you want their votes. Mayor Michaelis asked Chief Conrad about the sign at end of 12th Street. Police Chief Conrad reported that is a speed notification sign that we bought about two years ago. It is a data collector. It is currently at a spot where we changed from a stop sign intersection to a yield sign. We have a list of places that have requested it be posted. We are considering purchasing a second one because of its popularity. We can add Lindenthal to the list.

Requests of Council:

No comments or requests were made.

Staff Reports: Public Safety Facilities Update – Director Conrad reported we met with the contractor and made some minor changes to interior to allow for more administrative space with the improvement planned for Station #1. We will probably start on that project next March. We met with bonding counsel and believe now is the time to seek those bonds. With rates dropping, now appears to be the time to get the bonding process started. Council will see that over the next few months. Went out for bids, last spring, for Troxler Avenue facility. We have scaled the project back, based upon information received though that bid process and other area projects within the county. We feel we are pretty close to a re-design of that building. The question is whether to take proposals for design-to-build or send a new re-design out for bid. We look to bring to council early next year. The new public safety facility and fire station renovations are two separate projects rather than one project package. We will need to find a home for fire and EMS during the renovations. With planning of these projects, we are keeping in mind where the volume of our calls are, so we continue to serve at the highest level.

The new public safety facility will be 30-40% larger than the current police station. With the workflow, we feel we will be able to get a lot more use out of the square footage and get a thirty- to forty- year structure that accommodates all three services – police, fire and EMS. We have several employees involved in the planning and design process. They have done a lot of scouting of other area facilities, and provided input on what they like and did not like. We are pretty excited about the improvements to the Station #1. Councilwoman Bellm expressed I appreciate that you are keeping an eye on the costs, but we do not want to give up critical things. This (city hall) building is used as an example. We kept cutting costs and now we regret what we failed to do. Mayor Michaelis asked if it will have holding cells. Director Conrad replied our holding cells will hold someone for 3-6 hours. Anything longer than that, they are taken to Madison County. For the liability, it is best to transport to Madison County and have them handle housing.

City Manager Latham reported there will be a meeting, here, on November 13 to meet with the landlords regarding inspections. Things are going well with occupancy inspections. We want to get input on any changes.

NEW BUSINESS

Approve Mayor’s Appointments to the Historical Commission – Councilwoman Bellm made a motion to approve the mayor’s appointments of the following to the Historical Commission: Jacob Rose and Jeffrey Menz, three-year terms, to expire October 31, 2022; Lynn Hargus and Lynette Schuepbach, two-year terms, to expire October 31, 2021; and, John Johnson, one-year term, to expire October 31, 2020 as attached. Motion seconded by Councilman Frey. Roll Call Vote: Councilmembers Sloan, Frey, Bellm and Hipskind voted aye, none nay. Motion carried.

Bill #19-140/RESOLUTION Authorizing Allocation of Hotel/Motel Tax Funding – Highland Optimists’ Club for Their 2020 Shootout – Matt Miller, hospitality chairman for the 2020 event stated we are requesting at least two police officers to cover the event, as in past years, and a sponsorship of $2,500. We sell about 2800 tickets prior to the event online and three teams stay in the local hotel. The final game is Chicago Whitney Young vs. CBC of St. Louis. We fourteen nationally ranked players, including the top ten players in Missouri with Missouri teams: Columbia Tolton, DeSmet, Mehlville, Trinity Catholic, Chaminade, Vashon, and CBC. We have had a sellout event every year, since 2010. Councilman Frey made a motion to approve Bill #19-140/Resolution #19-11-2659 authorizing allocation of $2,500 of Hotel/Motel Tax Funding to the Highland Optimists’ Club for their 2020 Shootout, their 29th annual event, as attached; seconded by Councilwoman Bellm. Roll Call Vote: Councilmembers Sloan, Frey, Bellm and Hipskind voted aye, none nay. Motion carried.

Bill #19-141/RESOLUTION Authorizing Allocation of Hotel/Motel Tax Funding – City 2019 Holidays on the Square – Councilwoman Bellm made a motion to approve Bill #19-141/Resolution #19- 11-2660 authorizing allocation of $3,890.54 of Hotel/Motel Tax Funding for City 2019 Holidays on the Square as attached; seconded by Councilman Frey. Councilwoman Bellm expressed concern about this since hotel/motel tax has to be spent on marketing, and there is no marketing listed in the budget. Mayor Michaelis pointed out this is to promote tourism. We went through that one of two criteria be met: (1) produces people that are going to stay within your hotels or (2) promotes tourism. Councilman Hipskind concurred the state statue is very broad and far-reaching. Some communities us it to pay off debts with these funds. Councilwoman Bellm contended this is not advertising and promotion. There is some gray area here. The chances of overnight stays because of this is very slim. I want to acknowledge on the books that this does not fit of what we have done for others with hotel/motel tax funding. Councilwoman Sloan pointed out the city has turned down others for not having advertising in their budgets. We need to be consistent. Councilwoman Bellm pointed out we just gave funds for Flugel Fest and are now asking for this event.

Coordinator Mallord Hubbard stated in staff’s reading of the ordinance, we felt it qualified, as it draws thousand to the Square and downtown area. The reason for the amount is specific, because we are asking only for what we need. Councilwoman Sloan inquired have we ask businesses to support this. Coordinator Hubbard stated will make the commitment to seek sponsorships and will only take what we need for any shortfalls. Councilman Hipskind inquired are we taking over the festivities and parade. Coordinator Hubbard replied we are not taking over the parade. We are taking over more of the festivities after the parade that are occurring on the Square. Councilman Hipskind asked why we are taking them over. Coordinator Hubbard responded it has to do with the funding of the Chamber. Councilwoman Bellm stated I do not want it misconstrued that I do not want this. City Manager Latham reported it was voted by Chamber of Commerce that they do not want to do this. If the council would like we can put in a line item for Christmas Holiday on the Square in the budget for $4,000. As you can see, the Chamber of Commerce is turning over the signage and Christmas lighting to the city. We will need to figure out a way to maintain and replace them as needed. Councilwoman Bellm expressed we need to encourage some other groups to do some events and apply for the motel/hotel tax funding. We need to let them know we want more things going on. We have a line item in the budget for the fireworks; should add this. Roll Call Vote: Councilmembers Frey, Bellm and Hipskind voted aye, Sloan voted nay. Motion carried.

Bill #19-142/RESOLUTION Authorizing Donation/Gifting of Personal Property from the Highland Chamber of Commerce to the City, Including Holiday Decorations and Welcome Signs – Councilman Frey made a motion to approve Bill #19-142/Resolution #19-11-2661 authorizing donation/gifting of personal property from the Highland Chamber of Commerce to the City, including holiday decorations and welcome signs as attached; seconded by Councilwoman Bellm. Councilwoman Bellm noted I know that we have housed most of this. As with the previous item, we do not have anything in the budget to maintain the buildings and lighting. City Manager Latham reported he checked with the Highland Area Community Foundation. There is a fund established that will assist with replacing the bulbs. Civic groups took sponsorship of several of the buildings, years ago. Councilman Frey added the high school did repairs to those buildings when their building/trades program was going on. Now that it is back in place, hopefully, we can utilize them again. Roll Call Vote: Councilmembers Sloan, Frey, Bellm and Hipskind voted aye, none nay. Motion carried.

Bill #19-143/RESOLUTION Approving and Authorizing Execution of Contract for Ambulance Service with St. Jacob Fire Protection District – Councilwoman Bellm made a motion to approve Bill #19-143/Resolution #19-11-2662 approving and authorizing execution of contract for ambulance service with St. Jacob Fire Protection District as attached; seconded by Councilman Frey. Roll Call Vote: Councilmembers Sloan, Frey, Bellm and Hipskind voted aye, none nay. Motion carried.

Bill #19-144/RESOLUTION Approving and Authorizing Execution of Contract for Ambulance Service with Marine Community Fire Protection District – Councilman Frey made a motion to approve Bill #19-144/Resolution #19-11-2663 approving and authorizing execution of contract for ambulance service with Marine Community Fire Protection District as attached; seconded by Councilwoman Bellm. Roll Call Vote: Councilmembers Sloan, Frey, Bellm and Hipskind voted aye, none nay. Motion carried.

Bill #19-145/ORDINANCE Declaring Personal Property Surplus and Authorizing Its Sale and/or Disposal, Specifically, Highland Communication Services Equipment – Councilwoman Bellm made a motion to approve Bill #19-145/Ordinance #2974 declaring personal property surplus and authorizing its sale and/or disposal, specifically, Highland Communication Services Equipment as attached; seconded by Councilman Frey. Roll Call Vote: Councilmembers Sloan, Frey, Bellm and Hipskind voted aye, none nay. Motion carried.

Bill #19-146/RESOLUTION Approving Change Order #2 for PW-02-18, the Water Main Improvements, for an Additional $51,435.69 to be Allocated to the Project Cost, and an Additional 47 Days to Complete the Project – Councilman Frey made a motion to approve Bill #19-146/Resolution #19- 11-2964 approving Change Order #2 for PW-02-18, the Water Main Improvements, for an additional $51,435.69 to be allocated to the project cost, and an additional 47 days to complete the project as attached; seconded by Councilwoman Bellm. Roll Call Vote: Councilmembers Sloan, Frey, Bellm and Hipskind voted aye, none nay. Motion carried.

Bill #19-147/RESOLUTION Approving and Authorizing Execution of a Preliminary Engineering Services Agreement with Curry & Associates Engineers Inc. for PW-21-19, the Water Main Improvements FY2020 project – Councilwoman Bellm made a motion to approve Bill #19-147/ Resolution #19-11-2665 approving and authorizing execution of a preliminary engineering services agreement with Curry & Associates Engineers Inc. for PW-21-19, the Water Main Improvements FY2020 project as attached; seconded by Councilman Frey. Roll Call Vote: Councilmembers Sloan, Frey, Bellm and Hipskind voted aye, none nay. Motion carried.

Bill #19-148/RESOLUTION Waiving Normal & Customary Bidding Procedures and Authorizing Execution of a Purchase Agreement for a Dell Server Through the State of Illinois Joint Purchasing Program - Councilman Frey made a motion to approve Bill #19-148/Resolution #19-11-2666 waiving normal & customary bidding procedures and authorizing execution of a purchase agreement for a Dell Server through the State of Illinois Joint Purchasing Program as attached; seconded by Councilwoman Bellm. Roll Call Vote: Councilmembers Sloan, Frey, Bellm and Hipskind voted aye, none nay. Motion carried.

Bill #19-149/ORDINANCE Amending the Municipal Code, Adding Chapter 4, Entitled “Cannabis,” Creating Ordinance for Cannabis Licensing in the City – Councilwoman Bellm made a motion to approve Bill #19-149/Ordinance #2975 amending the municipal code, adding chapter 4, entitled “Cannabis,” creating ordinance for cannabis licensing in the City as attached; seconded by Councilman Frey. Mayor Michaelis stated in discussion with City Manager Latham he asked that Chief Conrad provide an overview of this and the State Law. Director Conrad reported, back in July, Governor Pritzker signed into law the recreational use of marijuana in the State of Illinois, as of January 1, 2020. That means any person, 21 years of age or older, can purchase and possess up to 21grams of cannabis flower at one time. For use with any cannabis related business or in home/residence. There will be licensed growers. Those holding medical cards can grow up to five plants at one time. DUI laws have not changed. A certain percentage of nanograms (10 nanograms per milliliter or higher) in the bloodstream will be the measurement. I suspect they will re-evaluate that as more studies become available. We do not have a lot of the needed data. We attended training, last month, City Manager Latham, City Attorney McGinley, Director Slover, and myself. This was the first training session offered. We are trying to figure out how to handle this from a workforce standpoint, as well as law enforcement. Drug free workplaces are allowed. Nothing changes there. Some minor tweaks are needed to personnel policies. Staff is putting together training for supervisors within the different departments of the city. We are going to coincide this with the annual Christmas party and do training on how we are going to handle calls we receive as of January 1, 2020. Even those that grew up listening to Nancy Regan say “Just Say No,” we are going to have to adapt that to how we view alcohol. The statue allows communities to opt out on the sale of cannabis within their communities at retail establishments. Several other area communities have been addressing this same issue. Just about every part of the city’s business is effected by this. We will even be discussing this with landlords, a next week’s meeting.

Mayor Michaelis asked what a business would need to spend to get a license to sell. I heard $75,000. Director Conrad stated I believe they are looking at a six-figure amount between all the permitting, licenses and consulting fees. When sent to training in Kentucky, one of my classmates was from Colorado. Legalizing this in Colorado created an entire industry. Because it is still considered taboo, people will seek it out. Councilwoman Bellm asked who will be able to sell. Director Conrad explained those selling January 1 will be medical dispensaries. Medical use with be taxed different from recreational use sales. Councilwoman Bellm inquired you have to be approved as a medical dispensary to sell, but down the road, there will be recreational/retail sales. Director Conrad reported medical dispensaries will get an additional license and then there will be second wave, and then another phased in every 3-4 months, with estimated 300-400 retail establishments by 2022.

Councilman Hipskind clarified this is our opportunity to opt in or opt out. Can we opt out for now, but opt in later. Director Conrad explained the dispensary in Collinsville could chose to open a shop here, with their retail license. City Attorney McGinley advised we could repeal and replace the ordinance in front of you. Councilwoman Bellm clarified we can opt in later, if licenses are still available. Councilman Hipskind asked Director Conrad, did you find in your research that sale of it in community have higher crime rates. Director Conrad reported it indicated more black market demand in areas where retail license is not. Initially, they saw an uptick in nuisance crimes, but then it tapered off. Councilman Hipskind expressed I have a hard time wrapping my head around black market if we do not allow. Director Conrad acknowledged marijuana has been around. In review records, anything less than 30 grams is a misdemeanor. We had 16, in 2017; 28, in 2018; and 23, in 2019. My day shift staff would say they encounter possession 3-5 times every two weeks, while 10-15 instances on night shift during a two- week time period. Councilwoman Bellm asked is that selling or possessions. Director Conrad replied mostly possession.

In Illinois, they are trying to take a lot of steps to prevent black market activity. In particular, the regulation of growth by medical users. I did tour one of these growth facilities. The smell is very bad and pungent. In Illinois, to combat black market activities, there will be specific containers for legally purchased product and it must be transported in a certain way. There are several things Illinois has adopted from other states to create controls. Councilman Hipskind inquired do we have more police per capita than other communities. Director Conrad acknowledge, in Highland, we are on the high side of percentage of police to residents for the State of Illinois. National we are with the average. Councilman Hipskind asked what the tax breakdown is. City Attorney McGinley reported we are at 8.35% sales tax rate. States portion of that is 6.25%. We also have county flood tax, Metro East transit tax and Metro East Park & Rec tax, plus 1.0% NHR, 0.5% Business District Tax. Based upon projections, this cannabis act would allow us to put into place up to an additional 3.5%. Based upon $1M in sales, we would be looking at $45,000 to the city based upon new laws.

Councilman Hipskind stated I represented the City of Fairview Heights when they went up against Larry Flint’s proposed establishment. Because of ordinances in place and not in place, it was built right next to a dance school that children go to. If this does go through, I want to make sure the sale of it is not next to where my daughters go to dance class or such. City Attorney McGinley reported, if approved here, it would be only allowed with a Special Use Permit in areas zoned C2, C3, C4 and Industrial. The ordinance also states it must be at least 1,000 feet away from schools and churches, and if more than one, they would have to be at least 1,000 feet away from each other. I definitely have been trying to think though all the possibilities. Councilman Hipskind asked Chief Conrad what type of people frequent these facilities. Chief Conrad reported the person that manage the facility I went to, had owned a dispensary with Colorado. Most of these are owned by large corporations. He said eighty percent of the customers were middle-aged moms that wanted to get in and out before their neighbors saw them. For many people, it will be a change in perspective. We are going to have to adjust how we view it. We have to view it as alcohol and make sure everyone is playing by the rules.

Councilwoman Sloan inquired you have to send your staff to training. Director Conrad replied yes. If we have a facility, the tax funds could be used to offset costs. Classes are just getting started. Across the state, only get 30-40 people though class per year. Other training is how to recognize and give appropriate reporting of impairment. The amount of TCH in blood is different than alcohol. In DUI cases, it is much better to describe impairment. With criminal convictions, people want to see impairment rather than just a level number. It is going to be a challenge to get everyone trained. We are 40-45 days out from law going into effect. Everyone is scrambling. We presently have two officers trained in impairment recognition.

Councilman Frey expressed this is a tough one. We are talking about the dispensary itself. Everything else is going to happen. He asked City Attorney McGinley if it is prohibited within 1,000 feet from property borders of churches and schools. City Attorney McGinley replied that is correct. Councilman Frey stated I tried to do homework over the weekend. There are mixed reviews of it on the internet. I am concerned about the best interest of Highland. I am not looking at this for the tax dollars. $1M is a drop in the bucket for these dispensaries. Director Conrad stated I am leery of estimates from the State of Illinois. We might not make that. Councilman Frey expressed personal opinion is what I am struggling with.

Mayor Michaelis stated we went through same thing with gambling, when it became legal in Illinois. It is legal and it does not seem to cause a noticeable problem in Highland. I am not personally a fan of it. Make a decision that you feel is best for the community. Councilwoman Sloan inquired we could initially issue just one license. City Attorney McGinley explained this ordinance would allow for one license. The council would have to approve who receives that one license. By establishing that ordinance, we are putting one license out there. Councilman Frey stated gambling was there to supplement a lot of our smaller businesses. Councilwoman Bellm pointed out it is legal. Times are changing. It is legal. I would rather have some control over location, hours, and other sorts of things. I would much rather have control over it when it is legal. Who am I to say those cannot partake. We view ourselves as a progressive community. It is legal and who am I to say they cannot take it and lead them into the black market where they are unsure of the quality and the ingredients. Director Conrad stated it is similar to when prohibition ended. Councilwoman Bellm added safe product in a safe location is important to me. I had a friend that used it when they had a brain tumor and was in extreme pain. It provided her comfort. Councilman Frey stated those are good points. As with gambling, we may not be in favor of it; however, who are we to tell others they cannot. Councilman Hipskind expressed there is not a lot of data on this. I think I see where this is going and I think it is a big mistake. I do not think it fits in this community. I would prefer to see how it affects other communities before we just jump into this. It is not so much what I think about it, it is what other people in this community feel and think about it. It is a very passionate thing for many. We need to allow people to voice their opinion on it. I think it is important to put it on the ballot for citizens to vote on. Councilwoman Bellm expressed that is interesting, because many people I spoke with felt it does not make a difference, because people are going to use it either way. Just as with video gambling, we are going to have people that do not like. Some like alcohol; some don’t. Some like broccoli; some don’t. They feel anyone that is smoking it now will continue. Councilman Hipskind questioned is it going to be an increase in crime with a discrepancy. Seems like we are going to be a guinea pig to pick up $50,000. I do not see a facility in Highland grossing $1M. Such an important issue, I feel should be left to people to vote on. If it does pass, tonight, enlighten if we could put on the ballot for residents to vote on. Councilwoman Bellm asked where the public is at tonight. I expected the place to be packed tonight, but no one is here. Roll Call Vote: Councilmembers Sloan, Frey, Bellm voted aye, Councilman Hipskind voted nay. Motion carried.

Bill #19-150/ORDINANCE Amending the Municipal Code Through the Addition of Chapter 70, Taxation, Article VI, Cannabis Retailers’ Occupation Tax – Councilwoman Bellm made a motion to approve Bill #19-150/Ordinance #2976 amending the municipal code through the addition of Chapter 70, Taxation, Article VI, Cannabis Retailers’ Occupation Tax as attached; seconded by Councilman Frey. Councilwoman Bellm inquired this sets the tax rate at 3%. City Manager Latham replied yes. Roll Call Vote: Councilmembers Sloan, Frey, Bellm voted aye, Councilman Hipskind voted nay. Motion carried.

Bill #19-151/ORDINANCE Approving the Illinois Municipal League Risk Management Association Minimum/Maximum Contribution Agreement for the Period of January 1, 2020 to January 1, 2021, and the Associated 2019 IMLRMA Contribution Payment Agreement – Councilman Frey made a motion to approve Bill #19-151/Ordinance #2977 approving the Illinois Municipal League Risk Management Association Minimum/Maximum Contribution Agreement for the period of January 1, 2020 to January 1, 2021, and the associated 2019 IMLRMA contribution payment agreement as attached; seconded by Councilwoman Bellm. Roll Call Vote: Councilmembers Sloan, Frey, Bellm and Hipskind voted aye, none nay. Motion carried.

Approve Request for Proposals for Banking Depository Services – Councilwoman Bellm made a motion to approve Request for Proposals for Banking Depository Services as attached; seconded by Councilman Frey. Roll Call Vote: Councilmembers Sloan, Frey, Bellm and Hipskind voted aye, none nay. Motion carried.

Approve Notice of Municipal Letting, Bid #BZ-20-19 for the Demolition of 516 9th Street – Councilman Frey made a motion to approve Notice of Municipal Letting, Bid #BZ-20-19 for the Demolition of 516 9th Street as attached; seconded by Councilwoman Bellm. Roll Call Vote: Councilmembers Sloan, Frey, Bellm and Hipskind voted aye, none nay. Motion carried.

Discussion - Update of Parks & Recreation Comprehensive Plan – Director Mark Rosen reported, earlier this summer, City Manager Latham and I were talking about the bonds being paid off on the Korte Rec Center approaching. I took upon myself to talk to people about what they would like to see for the parks and recreation area of our community. I have talked to people out at Silver Lake that were from Springfield and a man from Colorado that was traveling though. They were playing disc golf out there. My hope is to make Highland a travel destination. Many people come from around the area for tournaments at Glik Park, as well as to use Silver lake and Korte Rec Center. This provides a guide for future budgets and for my predecessor.

Councilwoman Bellm expressed this is a great idea. We have great venues, but we need to take care of what we have got. One thing upsetting is not having dredging of the lake until around 2030. City Manager Latham asked Director Rosen you want to incorporate this into the city’s comprehensive plan. Director Rosen replied yes. Councilwoman Bellm expressed great idea, so that is provides direction. While not carved into stone, it provides a guide of what needs to be considered and what is at stake. Deputy City Clerk Lana Hediger explained this has to be adopted by ordinance. Councilwoman Bellm stated I feel it would be good for the Combined Planning & Zoning Commission to see this as well.

REPORT

Approve Warrant #1146 – Councilman Frey made a motion to approve Warrant #1146 as attached; seconded by Councilwoman Bellm. Roll Call Vote: Councilmembers Sloan, Frey, Bellm and Hipskind voted aye, none nay. Motion carried.

Councilwoman Bellm made a motion to temporarily adjourn this regular session to enter into executive session under the Illinois Open Meetings Act under 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(21) to discuss approval of executive session minutes; and, 5 ILCS 120/2(c)5 to discuss whether or not the City should purchase or lease certain real property. Motion seconded by Councilman Frey. Roll Call Vote: Councilmembers Sloan, Frey, Bellm and Hipskind voted aye, none nay. Motion carried. Meeting temporarily adjourned at 9:00pm. Mayor Michaelis reconvened the Regular Session at 9:35pm. Council members Hipskind, Bellm, Frey and Sloan were present. Others in attendance were City Attorney Michael McGinley, Deputy City Clerk Hediger, and City Clerk Bellm.

Mayor Michaelis stated nothing discussed in executive session will be acted upon tonight in this session. Councilwoman Bellm made a motion to adjourn; seconded by Councilwoman Sloan. All council members voted aye, none nay. Motion carried and meeting adjourned at 9:35pm.

https://www.highlandil.gov/sites/highlandil/files/minutes/11-04-2019.pdf