McHenry Times

City of Woodstock City Council met April 9.

Here is the minutes provided by the council:

A Special Budget Workshop meeting of the Woodstock City Council was called to order by Mayor Brian Sager at 1:30 PM, in the Council Chambers at Woodstock City Hall. Mayor Sager stated the purpose of the meeting is a Special Budget Workshop in anticipation of consideration of the annual Budget. He noted this meeting is being held under the Governor’s

Emergency Declaration with Council members attending both remotely and in person and those attending at City Hall observing social distancing. Noting there are no members of the public attending the meeting in person, he explained the procedures to be used by the City Council, City Staff, and the Public to join today’s meeting, including how comments may be made and questions asked and invited all to participate.

A roll call was taken.

COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS: Darrin Flynn, Lisa Lohmeyer, Wendy Piersall, Gordon Tebo, Michael Turner, and Mayor Brian Sager

COUNCIL MEMBERS ATTENDING REMOTELY: Jim Prindiville

COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT: None

STAFF PRESENT IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS: City Manager Roscoe Stelford, Grant Writer/Communication Manager Terry Willcockson, and City Clerk Cindy Smiley

STAFF ATTENDING REMOTELY: Assistant City Manager/Finance Director Paul Christensen, Public Works Director Christina Betz, Building and Zoning Director Joe Napolitano, Chief of Police John Lieb, Recreation Director Dave Zinnen, Opera House Director Daniel Campbell, Economic Development Director Garrett Anderson, Human Resources Director Deb Schober, Library Director Nick Weber, IT Director Dan McElmeel, and Assistant Public Works Director Brent Aymond.

Mayor Sager noted the presence of a quorum.

City Clerk Smiley confirmed the agenda before the Council was a true and correct copy of the published agenda.

Mayor Sager stated this is the single most important policy decision Council makes on an annual basis, allocating funds for services.

Mayor Sager stated Council is going to use the approach used for the last several years taking a look at the budget elements in various categories. He turned to Mr. Stelford and Mr. Christensen for introductory comments.

Mr. Stelford thanked staff for their work on the budget, noting this is a long process that began in January. He stated the proposed budget is intended to represent the priorities of the City Council, with this meeting held to make sure those priorities have been met. Mr. Stelford stated Staff will provide the final ordinance for consideration and approval of the budget at the next Council meeting, reflecting comments made at this meeting.

Mr. Stelford stated the Budget is down from last year’s proposed budget due to the delay of the enhanced streets program, noting there is $2.1 million in this budget rather than the $10 million originally discussed, with $3.1 million expected from the federal government.

Mayor Sager stated the intent today is not to make many changes, noting if something is clearly underestimated or missing, Council should decide if it wishes to make an adjustment. He noted it is not the goal today to rework the budget.

BUDGET REVIEW

Overview – All Funds

Mr. Stelford stated reductions of 18% in Revenues and 16% in Expenses is expected with a brief discussion taking place, including the impact from issuing bonds in the current fiscal year and funding the Enhanced Street Maintenance Program.

Personnel Summary

Mr. Stelford stated the budget does not propose an expansion of the workforce, noting it looks at eliminating one vacant, full-time superintendent. He stated the budget proposes creating a CIP Coordinator position, which would focus on projects and would be offset by the elimination of the aforementioned superintendent position. He also noted the elimination of the Human Resources LPT position which has not been filled and is not reflected in the budget. He stated the budget also memorializes the action taken mid-year by the Police Department regarding a part-time position.

General Corporate Fund Revenues

Mr. Stelford stated the General Corporate Fund drives many of the things done in the City. Noting the focus is always on a balanced budget, he stated he wished to briefly address revenues. He noted the figures presented do not take into account changes in the Census, as the City has not received the results as yet, stating they will not be available until the end of July. Mr. Stelford stated grant money from the federal government is reflected in the budget, noting this may need to be revised, with some funds having to go into next year as it appears there will be a delay in some of the funds. Concerning the grant funds from the federal government, Mr. Stelford stated not much has changed as they are still working on developing guidelines of what these funds may be used for, providing additional information on this.

In response to a question from Councilman Tebo, Mr. Stelford stated it is anticipated the Census will show the City has grown by a few hundred residents with no reduction anticipated. Mr. Napolitano expressed agreement with Mr. Stelford. Mr. Christensen stated even if the City’s population remains the same, he would expect to receive additional revenue, explaining this further.

Mayor Sager agreed, opining the City will probably see a total increase of 600 to 800 residents, stating the conservative budget assumptions taken by Staff is appropriate.

Mr. Stelford then discussed the Governor’s proposal of a 10% reduction in state-shared revenues, stating he is not concerned, as the state is receiving $7 billion in relief from the federal government. Mayor Sager stated the challenge is the legislature has promised legislation which could have significant increases in the state budget, and this would mean funds would have to be redirected to accommodate this.

In response to a question from Councilwoman Piersall, Mr. Stelford stated he will consult with City Attorney Ruth Schlossberg to see what the consequences to the City would be should the population fall before the 25,000 Home Rule benchmark.

Mr. Stelford stated the budget proposes supplementing IMRF and Social Security with additional funds received this year, which will be an unbudgeted transfer.

In response to a question from Councilman Tebo, Mr. Stelford stated Staff takes into account all available information when preparing the Budget, but noted Amazon’s announcement concerning the proposed distribution center in Huntley was not factored into this analysis, and any associated gains in the City’s population would not impact State-shared revenues until the City completed a Special Census. He noted there may come a time when it is felt it might be worthwhile to spend the funds for a Special Census.

General Government

Mr. Stelford stated this budget covers his Department as well as the Mayor and City Council. He stated there are no major changes proposed within the General Government budget, noting things may come up within this department mid-year.

Finance

Mr. Christensen stated everything is stable with the City able to maintain its budget even during the COVID-19 crisis.

Human Resources

Ms. Schober stated there are no major changes to the HR Budget, noting Staff continues to put forth a conservative budget with the Department often coming in under budget.

Mayor Sager reminded Council members are subject to routine Open Meetings Act and Ethics training, stating this must be done in a timely manner and stating employees go through vigorous training also. He stated he was proud of that oversight by Human Resources.

Mayor Sager stated the single most important thing the City does is to provide services to the residents and this is accommodated by the City’s professional Staff.

Building and Zoning

Mr. Napolitano stated Building and Zoning has tried to keep costs down from last year to this. He stated the Department is disappointed it has not been able to implement the programs associated with the Neighborhood Revitalization Strategic Area (NRSA) due to COVID-19, noting County Community Development has been tasked with developing and managing a variety of COVID-19 relief programs, which has put their regular programs on hold. Mr. Napolitano stated Building and Zoning looks forward to implementing the NRSA Programs in the next budget year.

Mr. Napolitano stated the Department also looks forward to an update to the Route 47 Corridor Plan and has budgeted for that in the coming fiscal year. He stated they have been discussing how the Rt. 47 improvements will impact land use and other things. He noted it is time to start thinking about planning for this area and what the City wishes it to look like and what future development will look like also. Mr. Napolitano stated it is hoped to get a grant for the cost to create this plan. In response to a question from Councilman Turner, Mr. Napolitano stated the expected cost for the Rt. 47 overlay is $40,000.

Councilman Tebo asked if the $185,000 originally budgeted for the Neighborhood Improvement Program is being held for use in the coming fiscal year. Mr. Stelford stated due to COVID-19, the County was not able to get around to award the necessary CDBG funding for this program, so without that grant funding, the City has placed a hold on this program. He stated Mr. Napolitano and his team have been working on program development, so the City is ready when the funding becomes available.

In response to a question from Councilwoman Piersall concerning the hiring of a part-time person in Building and Zoning to help with the Landlord Registration Program, Mr. Stelford stated this was not filled this year, but is being carried over for the next budget year. He stated the intent is to fill this position in the coming year, dependent upon Council’s decision on the Landlord Registration Program.

Administrative Adjudication

There were no comments or questions on this item.

Community Events

In response to a question from Councilman Turner, Mr. Stelford stated Staff believes the overtime budgeted would be adequate for the currently anticipated events. He stated if additional events are approved by the Council, this may need to be revisited.

Mayor Sager stated the City is seeing renewed interest and enthusiasm in community events after COVID-19, noting it is interesting to see how various organizations are interested in various protocols. He opined there will be a lot of activity on the Square this year.

Economic Development

Mr. Anderson stated the budget numbers for the Economic Development Department are similar to last year. He stated he is proud of the ED team and how they have supported the business community during COVID-19.

Mr. Anderson stated this year’s priorities are business retention and business expansion. He stated the Department is resuming in-person visits to businesses and manufacturers to help them overcome any difficulties. He stated it is his wish to get the City Council back into manufacturing facilities also.

He stated the business registration program has lagged due to COVID-19, expressing his hope to get back to this soon.

Concerning Route 47, Mr. Anderson stated the Department wants to make sure to get the businesses prepared for the improvement project.

Mr. Anderson noted business attraction is all about relationships, stating the department continues to work on business relationships. He talked about this further, describing what this effort entails. He also talked about the successes the Department has had in attracting national brands that now have a location in Woodstock.

Stating she likes the Department’s goals of business expansion and retention, Councilwoman Lohmeyer asked why the drop in spending for communication. Mr. Stelford stated this was a charge to the Department for cell phones and their land line phones, not marketing or outreach efforts.

Mayor Sager commended Staff, particularly the Economic Development Department, for their outreach to help businesses during COVID-19. He opined this has been very positive with the support of the City Council and the City Administration.

Revolving Loan Fund

Mr. Anderson stated the City has consistently extended the money in this fund, opining if there were additional funds, they would be used also. He stated right now there are no applications pending due to COVID-19.

Mr. Stelford explained the RLF has now used 89% of its available funds. Mayor Sager asked if Council would like to increase the available funds in the RLF.

Mr. Anderson stated the typical loan amount is $60,000 with 7 loans outstanding. He stated the City has not required any repayment on these loans due to COVID-19. He noted prior to COVID 19, one recipient was having a difficult time.

Councilman Turner stated he is interested in monitoring this. He opined the City needs to see where businesses come out from COVID-19 and where the loans stand. He stated he does not want to get to far into the City loaning money, not wishing to increase this substantially. He opined this requires more discussion.

Mayor Sager stated there are still a lot of unknowns regarding COVID-19 outcomes, including to what advantage are people going to use federal funds. He opined people would rather go in that direction, noting the City would also. He stated this is an area that could be revisited if there is an emergency once the City gets into the budget year, which would be his recommendation.

Councilman Tebo agreed that would be appropriate.

Councilman Turner reminded all the City did implement substantial measures very quickly when support for businesses was needed. He agreed with Mayor Sager’s comments and strategy.

Councilwoman Piersall stated she does not see this as extending the risk, but would be for businesses who wish to expand.

Councilman Prindiville stated the City has done a good job with this program, opining it should be kept on the front burner if there is a demand from small businesses, noting these funds are often unavailable from banks. He stated his positive impression of this program.

Emergency Loan Fund

There were no questions or comments.

Recreation

Mr. Zinnen expressed his hope the State keeps moving forward and gets to Phase 5 soon.

Mayor Sager stated the Recreation Department has had to implement unique and creative programming efforts, noting the challenges presented to it by COVID-19, expressing his appreciation for the great job they have done. He noted this was well received by the community.

Noting certain COVID-19 limits remain in place, Councilman Turner stated he would like to see the Playground Program set up with participants allowed to enroll. He urged Mr. Zinnen to begin planning for this program rather than waiting until June to plan it. He stated he would like to see it begin in June.

Councilman Turner stated the City and the Recreation Department should plan for an exit to COVID-19, especially for outdoor activities.

Mayor Sager expressed his 100% agreement with Councilman Turner, stating the City should go ahead with planning, expecting things to move forward, including as it looks at the Aquatic Center and the Recreation Department summer programs. He stated this is what the community is looking for now.

Mr. Zinnen stated this is what the Recreation Department is doing, noting the upcoming City Scene will be very similar to pre-COVID City Scenes.

Aquatic Center

Mr. Zinnen stated it is currently planned to have a cap of 600 people maximum for open swim. He expressed concern regarding selling season passes, as they have been unable to figure out an equitable way to sell these and figure out who gets them. He stated it is planned to give residents first choice at reserving their spot for open swim each day. Councilman Turner urged Mr. Zinnen to be sure the marketing communications make this very clear and is easy to understand. He also urged Mr. Zinnen to up the capacity and take off limits as soon as it is possible to do so.

Mayor Sager opined there will be a statement from the State and a new situation as of July 1 based upon the vaccination rate. He urged Mr. Zinnen to plan for this transition.

In response to a question from Councilman Flynn, Mr. Zinnen stated there have been days with 1,200 people in attendance, but not at the same time. He stated Staff keeps track of how full the pool is, as this is a safety issue.

In response to a question from Councilman Flynn concerning why season passes are not being sold, Mr. Zinnen stated Staff is concerned about selling passes if people make a reservation and do not show up. He described how this happens with other programs and the results. He questioned how this could be monitored and if and what the penalty would be. Mayor Sager stated the point is there is a disadvantage to limiting season passes and selling a certain maximum, knowing all those people will not visit the facility in one day. Councilman Turner suggested that 300 of the 600 slots could be for season pass holders, with the rest for non-pass holders. He advocated for finding a way to maximize enthusiasm, opining in a situation like this there are new opportunities as well as challenges. He urged Mr. Zinnen to use Facebook and Instagram to communicate unique things instantly. He suggested talking with Councilman Flynn regarding the use of social media, once there is a final plan. Councilman Flynn mentioned a few ways technology and social media can be used to the Department’s advantage.

Mayor Sager summarized Council is saying they would like to see the Department open up pool passes and incorporate technology.

Recreation Center

Mr. Zinnen stated operation of this facility is still difficult with no sauna, towels, whirlpool, or playroom allowed, noting it is hoped these will be allowed soon.

In response to a question from Mayor Sager, Mr. Zinnen stated the membership is down to 600 from 1,200. Mayor Sager urged the use of creative programming efforts to bring people back. Mr. Zinnen stated there are many people still very concerned about coming back into a gym.

In response to a question from Councilman Flynn concerning whether competition from new gyms is a factor, Mr. Zinnen stated when Planet Fitness opened the Rec Center was able to keep its membership numbers stable. He stated the demographics of the new facilities are different from the Rec Center, noting the Center’s members prefer a facility with a pool and whirlpool. He noted the required closure of the playroom hurts the Rec Center. Mr. Zinnen stated the facility is in good shape concerning equipment, noting Staff has been looking at a price model.

Mayor Turner opined the Recreation facilities and the Opera House compete with private venues, which presents a unique challenge. He urged Mr. Zinnen to take care of the niche his facilities occupy and attract new people as the City looks past COVID-19 to the future. He opined Mr. Zinnen should take advantage of what has happened with COVID-19, looking at his model and getting ideas from others about what their needs and goals are. He urged him to get back on track and compete in his facilities’ niches.

NISRA

Mr. Zinnen stated NISRA staff did an incredible job to create virtual programs for people with disabilities. Mayor Sager stated Woodstock receives more than its fair share of services from NISRA compared to the dollars it puts in.

Information Technology

Mr. McElmeel stated this department’s budget is consistent with a slight increase for primary security measures, describing these further. Mayor Sager expressed his appreciation to the IT Department for their work on creating virtual meetings, which presented additional challenges to Staff, thanking them for allowing the City to move forward seamlessly to do the people’s business.

Councilman Turner stated what Mr. McElmeel and the IT Department did last March and April was in concert with the 180,000-person company he works for, stating the City’s IT Department accomplished the same thing, which was an outstanding performance. He challenged the Department to develop the concept of a management system, opining the City needs to look at that kind of software as the next phase. He stated Mr. McElmeel helps Mr. Stelford and the Council with ways to enhance IT to streamline and improve operations.

Mayor Sager agreed, opining the City is behind in terms of making things convenient for users, stating there is no reason the City cannot get things streamlined and easily accessible.

Mr. Stelford stated COVID-19 sidetracked some of the work in this area, noting the efforts to make things easier and user friendly. He thanked Mr. McElmeel for his leadership and the ability to identify needs, noting major challenges in the cyber area and the implementation of new tools to help safeguard the City from these threats.

Police Fund

Chief Lieb stated the budget for the Police Department has no major changes for the coming year, noting the Department continues to provide quality police services as the community continues to open up after COVID-19.

Mayor Sager expressed his gratitude and respect for the Police Department for the job they have done, including in representing this community in difficult times, opining they could not have handled this better. He stated he wants all members of the Police Department to hear how grateful the Council is for their work.

In response to a question from Councilwoman Piersall, Mr. Stelford stated the City pays for the Crossing Guards rather than District 200, because under state law, the City has the power to levy for this. He also noted the Crossing Guards do not serve at all on school property, but rather only on City property.

Noting the Cultural and Social Awareness Commission has called for the City to look at planning for a Social Worker in the Police Department in the long-term, Mayor Sager stated at one time the Department did share a Social Worker intern. He asked Chief Lieb for his thoughts on this. Chief Lieb stated this was a pilot program, noting once this individual learned what needed to be done, there were some improvements. He stated once the grant ran out, the position was not budgeted for with City funds. Chief Lieb stated a couple of departments do have their own social worker, opining it really takes the right person to do this job. Stating he has had online meetings with someone interested in a social worker or co-responder position, Chief Lieb stated he is looking into this and to having further discussions.

Councilman Turner stated he is glad to hear Chief Lieb is thinking this over, noting he trusts his judgement. He stated his criteria for something like this is it should be something that lowers the demand on officers and brings a specialist into a situation who could better help. He noted he views this as someone who could manage a problem and make a situation better for the police and the individual involved, requesting that this is how this issue be looked at.

Noting there is an increase in 911 calls for mental health crises, Councilwoman Piersall stated she would like to know the number and kind of mental health crises the Police Department are involved in and what kind of help is sought from the Department. She opined a Social Worker could be a helpful addition to the force.

Opera House Fund

Mr. Campbell stated this was a challenging year for the Opera House as the facility has been effectively closed due to COVID-19. He stated the facility was able to do a number of events this year and is doing a lot of future planning for how to open this summer and get back to business as usual.

Mayor Sager thanked the Opera House Staff for all they have done during this challenging time, noting some of the things they have done have been very unique.

Library Fund

Mr. Weber stated there are no significant changes proposed for the Library in next year’s budget. He stated as a result of COVID-19, the Library has gotten better at remote programming and at providing materials to patrons in a new format. He noted they had been working on this previously, but it was accelerated due to COVID-19.

Mayor Sager stated the Library did a great job in doing unique things to provide provisions to those in need, thanking Staff. He opined this has elevated the position of the Library in the community.

Councilwoman Piersall extended her congratulations to the Library for doing an amazing outreach to the community.

Mr. Weber stated the Library has had a goal, that was delayed, to create space for an Audio/Visual (A/V) lab, which is becoming necessary for digital applications, but is prohibitively expensive for businesses or individuals just starting out. He stated this also would serve the Library Staff in its digital outreach.

Councilman Turner exited the Chambers at 3:07 PM.

Councilwoman Piersall stated she sees a need for support for small businesses as they come out of COVID-19, opining this could create interest in the Library’s A/V Lab. She urged the Library to get information out to people concerning this project and talked about how this could be used in the Library’s Makers’ Space in the Old Courthouse.

Councilman Turner returned to the Chambers at 3:10 PM.

Mr. Weber stated that is one of the things the Library will be working on. He opined the proposed survey will also serve as a way to get this information out to people.

Library Building Fund

Mr. Weber stated this is the first year most of the funds dedicated in this area are going toward internal projects, stating the Library is now at the point which it can start to work inside.

Library Debt Service

Mr. Christensen stated the City did have an amount of property tax that was paying off debt to the library that has been paid off, noting it has been moved to the tax levy in the General Fund and will be shared by the General Fund and the Library in the future for projects.

The Special Workshop was recessed at 3:14 PM.

The Special Workshop was reconvened with all present at 3:25 PM.

Public Works

Ms. Betz stated the Department has been able to hold the line or decrease operational expenses for many Public Works’ budgets, noting the increases seen are salary increases. She stated the Department’s goals generally reflect the plan to streamline programs and operations, streamline personnel, increase customer service, and accomplish Council projects and CIP projects within budget and timeframe.

Streets

Mayor Sager noted this will continue to be a priority, stating the enhanced streets program is on hold. He stated Council will have to make a determination in the future in terms of financing.

In response to a question from Ms. Schober, Ms. Betz stated there will be one line item for full time staff, with a part-time staff line item added for any part-time staff hired.

Fleet Maintenance

In response to a question from Mayor Sager, Mr. Stelford stated generally equipment replacement is determined by an assessment of the equipment by Fleet Maintenance staff. He stated there are some general rules, but equipment is assessed on a general basis based on its condition and use. Mr. Stelford stated the City does cycle items out, but each piece is reviewed individually.

In response to a question from Mayor Sager concerning to what extent natural resources are considered in equipment replacement, Mr. Stelford stated at one time the City had a program where it had hybrid and modified vehicles. He stated the programs were not very successful, citing monthly expenses. He noted Public Works staff continues to look at these programs.

Ms. Betz stated the Department is taking a comprehensive look at the entirety of vehicles and will look at a possible efficiency program.

Mayor Sager stated the City should be able to say that it is looking at opportunities that exist going forward. Mr. Stelford noted Public Works serves as liaison staff for the Environmental Commission, which keeps them aware of new and changing technologies.

Public Works Administration

There were no questions or comments.

Parks Fund

Mayor Sager noted park development fees have gone through a period of restricted funds because of restricted development.

Park Development Fund

Mr. Stelford stated Council may wish to have a discussion about the policy of land donation in lieu of fees. He suggested the idea of looking at removing this and making it a cash donation only noting this is now the developer’s option. Councilman Turner agreed the City has plenty of park land.

In response to a question from Councilman Tebo, Mayor Sager stated the cash could be used for maintenance and other park needs.

Councilman Turner opined this should not be the developer’s choice but rather the City’s choice of whether it needs additional land. Mr. Napolitano stated the Council has the option of saying the City does not want a park in the respective area, but noted the fees are for land, not operations opining he does not believe it can be used for park operations. Mr. Stelford stated they are not considering operations but rather addressing capital needs, opining this could be addressed in an annexation agreement. He suggested the City Attorney be consulted concerning this matter. Mayor Sager stated this question should come before the City Council.

Mayor Sager noted 1% of park development funds is dedicated to public art, stating Council should determine if it wishes to recommit to this.

Water & Sewer Utility Fund – Revenues

Mr. Stelford stated the City has always looked at an annual increase to avoid a large one-time increase, which will eventual occur if a freeze is put in place. He said Staff’s recommendation is to look at this annual increase as costs continue to go up to supply water and sewer services on an annual basis.

In response to a question from Councilman Tebo, Mr. Stelford stated the proposed increase is usually greater than the cost of living. He noted Staff has proposed a 5% annual increase for the last few years due to capital needs.

In response to a question from Councilman Turner, Mayor Sager stated these fees were frozen for five years coming out of the recession. Mayor Turner expressed support for regular increases rather than getting “behind the 8-ball.”

Mr. Christensen noted Staff has also been looking at the rates of other communities, stating even with the 5% increase, Woodstock continues to have the 2nd lowest rates compared to other area communities.

In response to a question from Councilman Tebo concerning possible funds from the federal government, Mr. Stelford stated there is an unfunded project that could be used for an expansion of the system further south.

Councilman Prindiville opined it is very important for the City to look ahead and implement fee increases as it does, noting consumption is generally declining while costs continue to go up.

Water & Sewer Utilities – Water Treatment

Mayor Sager noted the City has made significant improvement to its wells, but opined they are always subject to repair, which must be accommodated immediately. He asked all to keep in mind that Woodstock has high aquifers close to the surface that are replenished rather quickly with rains, unlike other area communities. He stated the City must also make sure it protects these and keep the wells in good shape.

Water & Sewer Utilities – Wastewater Treatment

In response to a question from Mayor Sager, Mr. Stelford stated there are no major issues in this area.

Water & Sewer Utility Fund – Sewer & Water Maintenance

There were no questions or comments.

Water & Sewer Utility Fund – Administration & Debt Service

There were no questions or comments.

Water & Sewer CIP Fund

There were no questions or comments.

Water & Sewer Capacity CIP Fund

There were no questions or comments.

Environmental Management Fund

In response to a question from Mayor Sager, Mr. Stelford stated the City’s contract with MDC for residential garbage service will expire at the end of this contract year, noting the Administration will be looking at pricing and contract renewal. He stated Staff will make recommendations to Council for renewal or going out for an RFP for this service.

Mayor Sager commended the Department of Public Works for all their hard work on the many and varied projects, particularly noting the upkeep and flowers in the Downtown area. He thanked all for their exceptional work.

City Hall

There were no questions or comments.

General Corporate – CIP Fund

Mr. Stelford stated this fund reflects Council’s priorities for the community’s capital needs. He stated the Metra warming house project may not move forward and will likely be carried over into the next fiscal year.

He stated the funds for street resurfacing were increased.

He noted this fund also includes the roundabout, providing additional information on this project and how the granting of “quick take” authority to the municipality is moving through the legislature and stating this project will likely be let in September. He stated the City will do a lot of utility work to get ready for construction of the roundabout. In response to a question from Councilman Turner, Mr. Stelford stated the roundabout project has a cost of $2.8 million with a City share of $1.3 million.

Mr. Stelford stated the additional funds from MFT are going to debt service to fund the debt service for the $10 million bond issuance that has been dedicated to street improvements. Noting $2.0 million was dedicated to streets in the current fiscal year, Mr. Stelford stated Council must revisit funding if it wishes to do more.

Tax Increment Financing Fund (TIF) #1

Mr. Stelford stated the biggest accomplishment in this fund is the preparation of the Die Cast site for redevelopment. He noted many of the Downtown improvements also were accomplished with TIF #1. He stated the City does have the ability to transfer any remaining funds in TIF #1 to the neighboring TIF, TIF #2, which is Staff’s recommendation, noting the Old Courthouse is in TIF #2. Mayor Sager noted other TIF #1 successes included the Old Courthouse improvements, streetscape improvements, and façade improvements. Mr. Stelford stated Staff will gather information on improvements that resulted from TIF #1.

Tax Increment Financing Fund (TIF) #2

Mayor Sager noted much discussion to TIF #2 has already taken place. Councilman Turner opined Council should start working strategically on this. Mayor Sager noted PanCor is moving through the process for the Die Cast site.

Miscellaneous – Social Security Fund

There were no questions or comments.

Miscellaneous – Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund

In response to a question from Councilman Turner concerning the large increase, Mr. Christensen stated investment returns were not good, which must be made up by the employer. He noted this will drop next year because the market has significantly improved.

Miscellaneous – Motor Fuel Tax Fund

In response to a question from Councilman Tebo, who noted his state vehicle fee went up because he does not use gas for his electric vehicle, Mr. Christensen stated he does not believe the City receives any of these additional vehicle fees.

Miscellaneous – Wireless Alarm System Fund

There were no questions or comments.

Miscellaneous – Liability Insurance Fund

There were no questions or comments.

Miscellaneous – Paratransit Fund

Mr. Christensen stated this Fund will be closed, as the County will be paying 100%

Miscellaneous – Debt Service Fund

In response to a question from Councilman Tebo, Mr. Stelford stated this increase is due to the debt service for streets.

Miscellaneous - Police Pension Fund

Brief discussion ensued of how the investment funds are chosen.

Miscellaneous – Health/Life Insurance Fund

There were no questions or comments.

Miscellaneous – Hotel/Motel Tax Fund

Mr. Stelford stated there has been a reduction in requests for these funds, noting this will be coming before the Council on its next agenda.

Supplemental Information

There were no questions or comments on these items.

SUMMARY

Mayor Sager stated as the budget is reviewed, it is obvious grants are a very important part of revenue. He commended Ms. Willcockson for her remarkable job in bringing grant funds to the City, expressing Council’s appreciation. He opined it was a wise decision to move her into Communications & Grants. Ms. Willcockson briefly explained the issues and challenges with grant programs during these times, specifically with the Shuttered Venue Grant. Mr. Campbell also provided additional information on this grant program, noting he is working with Ms. Willcockson on this.

In response to a question from Councilman Turner, Mr. Stelford stated the proposed budget is balanced from an operational standpoint.

Councilman Tebo commended Mr. Stelford and Staff for their work on the budget, opining it is a terrific process for Council to look at it line by line. He stated he is proud the City does this.

Mayor Sager noted this process is recognized in the award the City receives each year for its budget, noting this is done for the benefit of our community.

Mayor Sager thanked Staff for its professionalism, its time and its energy in developing the budget. He thanked the Council for its oversight of the budget process during its three workshops, noting it is Council’s single largest responsibility.

ADJOURN

Motion by G. Tebo, second by W. Piersall, to adjourn this Special Budget Workshop of the Woodstock City Council to the next regularly scheduled Council meeting at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, April 20, 2021, in the Council Chambers of Woodstock City Hall.

Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, W. Piersall, J. Prindiville, G. Tebo, M. Turner, and Mayor B. Sager. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 4:22 PM.

https://www.woodstockil.gov/sites/default/files/fileattachments/city_council/meeting/44120/f_-_council_budget_workshop_4-9-21_-_part_1_of_1_-_minutes.pdf