McHenry Times

City of Woodstock City Council met Feb. 15.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

A regular meeting of the Woodstock City Council was called to order at 7:00 PM, in the Council Chambers at Woodstock City Hall by Mayor Michael Turner. He explained the Consent Calendar process, invited public participation, and noted, as is the City’s policy, this evening’s meeting is being live streamed with a recording archived should members of the public wish to view it in the future.

A roll call was taken.

COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: Darrin Flynn, Lisa Lohmeyer, Tom Nierman, Wendy Piersall, Bob Seegers, Jr., Gordon Tebo, and Mayor Michael Turner.

COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT: None.

STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Roscoe Stelford, City Attorney Ruth Schlossberg, Deputy City Manager/Executive Director of Strategy & Planning Paul Christensen, Executive Director of Business Development Danielle Gulli, Public Works Director Christina Betz, Economic Development Director Garrett Anderson, Building and Zoning Director Joe Napolitano, City Planner Darrell Moore, Communications Manager/Grant Writer Terry Willcockson, and City Clerk Cindy Smiley.

OTHERS PRESENT: Transportation Commission Chairperson Andrew Celentano and Environmental Commission members Laurie Kacmar, Steve Wenzel, and Carol Elkins.

III. FLOOR DISCUSSION

A. Proclamation – Mayors’ Monarch Pledge Day

Mayor Turner stated this proclamation is being adopted by other communities across the nation, noting he is also pleased the City is willing to provide its support. Joining the Mayor at the podium were members of the Environmental Commission and representatives from the Environmental Defenders.

Without objection, the City Council approved and adopted A Proclamation for Mayors’ Monarch Pledge Day in Support of a National Wildlife Federation Program.

Mayor Turner read the Proclamation for all to hear, which was met with hearty applause. He thanked the members of the Environmental Commission and the Environmental Defenders for their support and many years of work.

Ms. Betz thanked the Environmental Commission for bringing this Proclamation forward, noting this is a program that fits in with what the City is already involved in and will be administered by Public Works.

In response to a question from Councilman Tebo, Ms. Skrukrud stated the Public can participate in the program by planting milkweed and other native plants suggesting they go to local nurseries to find them. She stated the Defenders would be happy to help residents find the resources they need.

B. Presentation – Age-Friendly Advisory Council – Intergenerational Inclusive Playground Stating she is here tonight on behalf of the Age-Friendly Advisory Council, Ms. Willcockson made a presentation, entitled Nature’s Way: A Playground of Possibilities.

Noting Woodstock prides itself in being first in innovation, Ms. Willcockson stated this project would be McHenry County’s first intergenerational inclusive playground, noting they are becoming very popular across the country.

She stated the playground would be designed by Recreation Specialists with a poured rubber mobility surface which will accommodate all kinds of equipment and colorful themed accessible amenities. She stated it would also include low impact exercise equipment, bench swing, permanent game table and shade elements, which would not only be enjoyable for all ages, but would provide benefits for all physical and cognitive abilities, and ages.

Ms. Willcockson stated while Deicke Park in Huntley is designated as an inclusive park, it was designed for toddlers and preschoolers, and is 20 miles away. The park proposed for Woodstock would be the area’s only intergenerational inclusive playground and would also create a best practice example of public service.

Ms. Willcockson then showed depictions of examples of equipment and areas that could be included in the playground, including unique elements, creative thematic structures, and art and music sensory items, describing them further.

She stated the Age-Friendly Advisory Council looked at Emricson Park as the logical place for this playground, noting there is ample parking and water service available.

Ms. Willcockson stated Public Works will develop an RFP, noting a variable estimated cost of $750,000+. She stated the proposal has gotten a positive response from the public.

Ms. Willcockson then discussed why this is a worthy investment stating:

• Disabilities do not limit a person’s enjoyment in life, the environment does.

• One in five people (20%) has a disability of some kind.

• D200 serves 850 (14%) special needs students.

• Play is integral to all children’s cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being.

• Disabilities increase as people age.

Noting Woodstock is an active, age-friendly, livable community, Ms. Willcockson stated an intergenerational playground would be good for the community. She stated older adults will soon outnumber children and noted grandparents often relocate to communities with amenities for both generations to keep families together.

She then showed renderings of an example of various low-impact exercise options and routines that could be included for all ages and abilities. She also talked about the possible inclusion of a Magic Marsh Splash Pad in the project.

Ms. Willcockson concluded by noting this project is a broad community-building opportunity with the potential for community partnerships with multiple agencies. She noted the proposed Woodstock Woods Walk could be utilized as a learning opportunity by D200 for example. She opined this would also be a destination attraction bringing people to Woodstock.

She discussed the possibility of grant funding for the project, noting the City’s allocation could be used for grant matches. She stated this project also meets DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) funding and ESG (Environment, Social, & Governance) investment, noting businesses are being asked to report on how their projects are better serving a community and how they invest.

Ms. Willcockson stated they are excited to begin the process for this project with Council’s approval. Mayor Turner commended the presentation, opining the project has a lot of potential.

Councilman Tebo supported the idea, opining the low-impact exercises would attract older people and noting the City could partner with the schools.

In response to Councilman Tebo’s question, Ms. Willcockson described the possible process, opining it could be a two-year timeframe. She stated the Age-Friendly Advisory Council would like to start with the Woodstock Woods Walk to garner public excitement and get the word out.

Councilman Nierman expressed support for the idea. In response to his questions, Ms. Willcockson stated while she does not know how much can be funded through grants, this project does line up with everything grantors wish to help fund at this time. She stated the $750,000 cost quoted was an example and would depend upon what elements are chosen for the final facility, how much money is raised, and what the City wishes the facility to be. She stated the project could be phased.

Councilwoman Lohmeyer supported the project, opining it is something inspiring in which the community can become involved. Noting the large price tag, she opined there are many opportunities for community contribution and grants. She stated she would like to pursue this project, perhaps in phases.

Councilman Flynn expressed support for the project, noting many playgrounds are not accessible or generational. He opined this would attract visitors as well as new residents to Woodstock.

Councilman Seegers stated he likes everything about the project except the cost. Noting the many groups expressing support for the project, he asked about the possibility of asking them to contribute first to reduce the cost. Ms. Willcockson replied they will be asked, noting the need to create partnerships, something with which she is experienced.

Councilman Seegers suggested not building the facility until grants or contributions are secured to fund at least half the cost. Ms. Willcockson noted many times grants have time limits.

Stating he does see this as a benefit to attract new residents, Councilman Seegers talked about all the things that are needed for new residents. Stating it was expressed that using part of the $3.4 million ARPA funds for this project would generate new residents, he opined the priority should be to first seek grants and contributions from those expressing interest. He stated he would support the project in that case.

Expressing sadness that Ms. Willcockson is retiring, Councilwoman Piersall opined this is her legacy project. She opined the presentation is so well done it can be used as a fundraising presentation. Councilwoman Piersall stated part of this evening’s discussion is how the ARPA funds can be extended, opining this is the kind of project that can do that.

Discussion ensued of phasing, Councilman Tebo suggested putting in the entire pad and then phasing in the equipment. Ms. Betz stated she would recommend phasing certain items, but not building the entire large base without putting any equipment on it.

Addressing costs, Ms. Betz noted there are funds in the 10-year CIP to replace playground equipment at the City’s various sites, noting just a standard park site is $80,000 - $100,000. She noted the equipment at the Main Playground in Emricson Park is also scheduled for replacement, stating this could be evaluated and taken into consideration for funding already planned. Mayor Turner asked that she continue to refine this idea.

In response to Councilman Tebo’s question, Ms. Betz stated while there are maintenance costs associated with the base, which must be planned for, she does not believe they would be above and beyond what they would be for any other playground. She opined the benefits would outweigh the costs.

Councilman Turner expressed support for the project. He echoed Councilwoman Piersall’s comments commending Ms. Willcockson and noting her impact on the City.

Mayor Turner stated the goals and impact of this project are clear and important, and are something the Council and the community can and will support. Opining the southwest part of the park makes sense, he asked Ms. Betz to look into whether two locations would be better, specifically to better regionalize this project. He asked Mr. Stelford to investigate how an initiative might be structured to move the project forward, putting together goals and objectives.

Mayor Turner stated he would like to develop a small group of people to move the project forward. He stated he would like to do more with less, opining this can be done with grants and involvement with other organizations such as D200. Mayor Turner expressed support for local fundraising including the idea of plaquing, which memorializes someone’s commitment to this effort.

Mayor Turner opined there is a great need for restrooms in Emricson Park, asking that this be looked at as part of the project.

Mayor Turner stated he sees the value of the splash pad being part of this project, but also as part of the Aquatic Center.

He opined the important thing is that the facility would serve all of Woodstock’s residents and be a destination for the city. He asked that those involved work with Mr. Stelford and bring the project back to the City Council, moving forward aggressively.

Mayor Turner opened the floor for Public Comment.

Julie Peters, Woodstock, expressed her gratitude for the support for this project. She stated she was speaking on behalf of her son, who has autism, stating even though he would enjoy it, he does not go to the park any longer, as he is too big. She talked about the reaction of young children who do not understand why he is there because he is an adult. Stating she loves this idea, Ms. Peters opined this could be a space for young adults to play and be seen by other people. She thanked the Council for thinking of doing this.

Melissa McMahon spoke about the Dream Park in Kenosha, talking about her family’s experiences there and stating it is wonderful to see children of all abilities playing together. She opined fundraising for such a facility is possible noting their family has discussed contributing to the park in Kenosha. She stated the intergenerational aspect would be wonderful also, noting the number of people who have moved to Woodstock to be near family and would like more places to go together. Melissa McMahon stated with her role at the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce and Industry this is an attraction she can market.

Aileen Zei, Age-Friendly Action Committee, stated she also works for McHenry County Community Development and wishes to express her support for the project. She stated there are definitely opportunities for grants, opining the project could also work with the County’s CDBG program. Noting her experience working with seniors, including Alzheimer caregiver support groups, Ms. Zei stated they need a place like this where everyone can go, opining this is a perfect solution.

Linda Warner, retired Special Education teacher in Woodstock, stated she and other teachers have taken their students to Emricson Park countless times, and tried to have fun, often wishing there could be more for them. Ms. Warner stated the more these children are integrated into the playground, the more inclusion there would be. She stated she would help in whatever way she can to make this happen and is very encouraged by the response to the proposal.

Roxanne Monti, Occupational Therapist with District 200, stated this park would be a great thing for the children, instead of bussing them to Huntley, which they have done. Noting she works with high school students, she stated there is nothing for them in this area. Stating this would be for all age-level children, PreK through High School, she opined District 200 would be a great supporter of this project.

Arlene Lynes, Woodstock resident and owner of Read Between the Lynes, stated she is representing the children who could not be here. She stated many families have commented asking why Woodstock cannot have a park like the one in Huntley, noting these families have many challenges. Expressing her appreciation for Councilman Seegers looking at this project with his fiduciary perspective, Ms. Lynes stated the City also has a community health responsibility to its residents, opining this would change these residents’ lives.

Ms. Lynes read letters from other resident/families all of whom expressed support of the proposed Park project including Mary Eckel, Elizabeth Donato, Phyllis Krage, Kara Schultz, Kelly and Peggy McClain, Illsa Aaron.

Charlotte McMahon Thomas spoke in support of the adaptive playground.

Andrew Celentano, Woodstock, expressed his support for the project and for the comments offered this evening.

Stuart Gaines, Florida, noted he soon would be a Woodstock resident, opining it is a wonderful community. Noting his involvement with the Age-Friendly Communitive initiative and service on the Board of various organizations benefiting seniors and individuals with disabilities, he opined this is the type of innovative project they would fund. He stated he holds Woodstock up as a wonderful retirement community and wholly supports this project.

Mayor Turner stated, as previously noted, he is asking Mr. Stelford to develop a strategy and working group to take this proposal to a more concrete level, examining the costs, design suggestions, and grant opportunities. He suggested reaching out to District 200 for suggestions and possible grant opportunities and to gauge their interest in contributing, and also to reach out to the private sector and businesses. He suggested the working group include Mr. Stelford or Mr. Christensen, Ms. Gulli, Ms. Willcockson, Ms. Betz, and a Councilmember to be determined.

It was the consensus of the City Council to move forward as suggested by Mayor Turner.

C. Public Comments

There were no comments forthcoming from the Public.

D. Council Comments

Mayor Turner recognized Melissa McMahon’s efforts on the recent Groundhog Day event, stating her tireless efforts, along with the other members of the Committee made it a great success.

Councilman Flynn stated he recently volunteered at Real Woodstock’s Wolves’ takeover event, opining it was a phenomenal event. He stated everyone had a great time, and many people took the handouts and information about Woodstock. He commended Real Woodstock for their efforts.

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by D. Flynn, second by W. Piersall, to approve the Consent Agenda.

In response to a question from Mayor Turner, there were no items removed from the Consent Agenda at the request of Council or the Public:

In response to a question from Mayor Turner, the following questions were forthcoming from the Public or the Council regarding items remaining on the Consent Agenda.

Item D-10 - Award of Contract – Establishment of a Rotating Motor Pool

In response to a question from Councilman Tebo, Ms. Betz confirmed the discount the City received on the purchase of vehicles will make up for the depreciation.

Mr. Christensen stated Staff is particularly proud of this innovative new program, as it will save money and is better than other similar programs. In response to a question from Councilman Seegers, Mr. Christensen stated there will also be a cost savings on maintenance.

Councilwoman Piersall stated she is proud of how much innovation she sees in this agenda, citing the Intergenerational Inclusive Playground, Police Social Worker, Comprehensive Plan, Old Courthouse, and Motor Pool items. She opined this is impressive innovation on the part of Staff. Mayor Turner concurred.

Item D-3 – Appointments to the Cultural and Social Awareness Commission Mayor Turner stated he interviewed both appointees, finding them to be outstanding individuals to serve on this Commission. Noting he is very pleased they stepped forward to serve and pleased to recommend them for appointment.

Item D-4 – Resolution – McHenry County Co-Responders Police Social Worker Noting the presence of Sgt. Aimee Knop of the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office, Mayor Turner expressed the City’s gratitude to her and the County for putting this program together. Opining this program has high potential, he stated he has high expectations for how this will help Woodstock’s police officers.

There were no further Council or Public comment or questions.

Mayor Turner affirmed the Consent Agenda to include items A through D-10 as follows:

A. APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MINUTES

February 1, 2022 City Council Minutes

February 1, 2022 City Council Executive Session Minutes

B. WARRANTS: 3990 3991

C. MINUTES AND REPORTS:

Historic Preservation Commission Minutes September 27, 2021 Historic Preservation Commission Minutes October 25, 2021 Transportation Commission Minutes November 17, 2021 Police Department Monthly Report December 2021 Cultural and Social Awareness Commission Minutes December 6, 2021 Plan Commission Minutes December 9, 2021 Human Resources Monthly Report November 2021 Human Resources Monthly Report December 2021 Human Resources Monthly Report January 2021

D. MANAGER'S REPORT NO. 197:

1. Ordinance – Amendment to Liquor Control Code – Approval of Ordinance 22-O 10, identified as Document 1, An Ordinance Amending the City’s Liquor Control Code Regarding Renewal of License by Liquor License Holders (and the Requirement for a Mandatory Educational Seminar).

2. Ordinance – Modification to Liquor License Classification - Approval of Ordinance 22-O-11, identified as Document 2, An Ordinance Amending Section 3.3.6 Classification of Licenses; Number and Fees, of the Woodstock City Code modifying the parameters of I Liquor License Classification to include the sale and consumption of wine on the premises of brewer/brewpub.

3. Appointments to the Cultural and Social Awareness Commission – Confirmation of the Mayor’s Appointments to the Cultural and Social Awareness Commission.

4. Resolution – McHenry County Co-Responders Police Social Worker Program – Approval of Resolution 22-R-03, identified as Document 3, A Resolution providing Approval of an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) for the McHenry County Sheriff’s Co-Responder Police Social Worker authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute an Intergovernmental Agreement with the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office.

5. RFP – Comprehensive Plan Update – Authorization to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) to seek a qualified firm to provide the services necessary to update the City’s Comprehensive Plan, with the selected firm and associated costs to be presented to the Council at a future meeting for final authorization to move forward with this project.

6. Public Right-of-Way – Old Courthouse Construction – Approval to allow the public right-of-way surrounding the Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House to be used for construction fencing with promotional signage at the discretion of the City Manager or his designee.

7. Facade Improvement – 210 N. Seminary Avenue – Authorization to allocate not more than 50 percent of program-eligible exterior improvement costs (up to $5,000) from TIF#2 funding for window replacement and trim work at 210 North Seminary Avenue.

8. Purchase – Purchasing Contract for a Replacement Dump Truck - a) Approval to award a revised purchasing contract with JX Enterprises Peterbilt, Rockford, IL for a replacement Peterbilt truck chassis under the Sourcewell joint purchasing program, Bid Number 060920-PMC; and

b) Authorization for the City Manager and/or staff designee to execute the truck chassis purchase for a not-to-exceed amount of $130,000 to cover any further cost fluctuations prior to delivery of the dump truck to the City.

9. Award of Contract – Prairie View Sanitary Sewer Lift Station – Approval of a contract with Metropolitan Pump Company to perform electrical control upgrade and pump replacement services at the Prairie View Sanitary Sewer Lift Station for an amount not to exceed $79,984.

10. Award of Contract – Establishment of a Motor Pool – Authorization to purchase fifteen (15) Ford F-150 pickup trucks from Morrow Brothers Ford, Greenfield, IL, through the Illinois State Bid Contract for the total price of $562,200.

A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, T Nierman, W. Piersall, B. Seegers, G. Tebo, and Mayor M. Turner. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried.

V. DISCUSSION

American Rescue Plan Act Funding and Community Project Planning Mayor Turner stated this is further discussion of the use of funds provided to the City through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) describing the process that has taken place since the awarding of these funds, including a public process that was undertaken to gather public input.

Mayor Turner suggested that Council discuss the outcome of the public input as needed and then 1) seek out and discuss those items it feels it is time to act upon and give guidance to Staff to begin putting things in place for those specific items; and 2) identify those items it wishes to address for recommendation for expenditures in the next round. Mayor Turner noted Council is not trying to define those items at this time, but rather is forwarding them to Staff with the sense that Council would like to turn its attention to them.

Concerning public input, Councilman Turner opined there were no surprises, noting the priorities identified were Streets and Recreation. He stated the City already has a good plan in place for street improvements, opining it is not necessary to spend ARPA funds on this. He opined the Pedestrian projects identified as the third priority would be more expensive than the funds available.

In response to a question from Mayor Turner, there was no additional public input coming forth this evening.

Discussion turned to the list of items provided in the Council packet.

Mayor Turner suggested choosing some smaller projects that can be started soon and that have visibility.

Mayor Turner stated his view that the playground is an appropriate use for these funds, opining when considering grants and other fundraising opportunities, the City’s share would be less than the total project amount of $750,000. He stated he views the ARPA funds as being available for this project in an amount to be determined, viewing that project as a placeholder. In response to Mayor Turner’s question, this was also the consensus of the City Council, with Councilman Seegers dissenting, stating he is supportive of the playground project, but not the use of ARPA funds for it.

Mayor Turner suggested the following projects for possible use of ARPA funds: Square bathrooms Square signage

Kiosks Arts funding

License Plate Readers Opera House and City Web Page Updates Video monitoring of the Square

Noting T-Mobile’s $250,000 commitment to upgrade one of the City’s baseball fields, Mayor Turner stated in discussions with user groups and Staff, it is believed the Dream Field at Emricson park should be updated. He stated the proposed improvements would meet the needs of multiple groups, save on maintenance, and enhance functionality and usability, noting the cost of this upgrade is estimated to be $275,000. Mayor Turner suggested ARPA funds be used to light the Dream Field, which would double or triple its use in the summer and allow the High School to play under the lights. He noted another suggestion as a private endeavor for the Dream Field is a brick program to enhance the backstop area.

Councilwoman Piersall stated she agrees with Mayor Turner’s suggestions for the most part, opining if resources are going to be dedicated to Emricson Park, the lightning detection system should be in working order. She stated she also feels the green infrastructure projects are important, noting she would like to see this as a priority.

Councilman Flynn expressed agreement with many of the previous suggestions. He put forth the following suggestions:

Update to the Park Master Plan Enhanced Sidewalk Program (Connections) Public Art Program Square Power Upgrade

Improved Square Sound System Web Site Update

Water Tower

Councilwoman Lohmeyer stated she likes every item on the list. She noted her priorities included: Water Tower Walkability and Bike Paths

Sewer and Water Extensions Intergenerational Playground with the Splash Pad and Restrooms.

In response to a question from Councilman Tebo, Mr. Stelford stated Staff’s priorities would depend upon the Staff member that was asked. He stated many of the community’s must-have needs are addressed in the CIP Program, which Staff is working to make sure can be funded.

Councilman Tebo noted his priorities as:

Square sound system upgrades Non-profit arts group

Downtown Bike Path Green infrastructure projects

In response to his question, Ms. Betz described the portable restrooms, noting it would support all the different special events around town rather than using porta-potties. She stated it would be stored at the Public Works facility. Mayor Turner stated this would be a great project to include in the second round.

Councilman Nierman stated his priorities as:

Outdoor stage at Emricson Park Update/cleanup/facelift of signage, parks, landscaping & bump outs

Councilman Seegers stated he is focused squarely on growth for the city, opining this decision should be based on what is best for all of the city. He stated this would go back to the water tower, but opined the City is not committed enough to housing growth, noting the reduction of impact fees by only 50%. He opined the water tower project would be a waste if the City is not aggressive enough on growth. Mayor Turner noted the 50% reduction was to spur growth on existing parcels, whereas the water tower is for big, new development growth.

Councilman Seegers expressed agreement with Councilman Nierman’s suggestion of sprucing up the town, which would improve the city. He opined the funds should not be spent disproportionately in any part of the city. He suggested the water tower as a big-ticket item and doing other smaller projects.

In response to a question from Councilman Flynn, Mr. Christensen stated included in next year’s CIP are the website, lightning detection, and Square electric upgrades.

Mayor Turner opined the list is a blend of CIP projects and ideas that came up during discussion of the ARPA funds. He stated Council votes each year on the CIP, noting it is up to Council to have conversations and consider what the strategic needs of the City are and to make decisions going forward. He opined Council cannot really say “do this through the CIP” and “do that with the ARPA funds” because of the blended nature of the list. He stated this is all the same pot of money, with the Council establishing priorities.

Councilman Flynn noted McHenry raised funds for their Rec Center Project by setting a certain amount of money aside for the project out of the total cost, stating this is how they approached donors. He stated it has to be apparent funds have been allocated on the City’s side and then people will contribute and partners can be added.

Councilman Flynn stated it would be helpful for Council to see what has been slated through the CIP, opining if ARPA funds were used, it could free up some CIP funds. He stated the water tower project and the playground project are great, which could free-up funds for other things in the CIP.

Councilman Seegers expressed support of the portable restrooms, opining if restrooms are built there will be maintenance issues. Mr. Christensen opined the Old Courthouse restrooms could serve the Square.

Mayor Turner asked that Mr. Stelford and Staff take the list heard tonight and refine it into a concrete set of first-round items to bring back to Council or share with Council individually for its consideration and approval at a future meeting. Noting Staff heard the discussion of growth and the future, he asked that Staff look at the list and tell Council what those are and what the big ticket items are. This will help Council prioritize projects for the next discussion.

For the next Council discussion, Councilwoman Piersall asked Ms. Willcockson to weigh in on those items that may have the greatest potential for grant funding. Mayor Turner asked that information be included on those things where opportunities to secure funding could open up if the City committed funds.

Ms. Betz noted the Square lighting and other downtown Square items have been submitted for DCEO grant funding.

In response to a question from Councilman Seegers, Mr. Christensen confirmed the $3.4 million in ARPA funds can be used as a grant match.

Mayor Turner stated if there is a $1 million project that is valuable and has protentional to get grant funding or be used as a match, that should enhance how Staff brings this to Council, providing this information for Council’s discussion.

Councilman Seegers stated for the next discussion he wishes to know what is in the future CIP, what is eligible for grants on their own, what big ticket items could be leveraged into $6.8 million.

In response to a question from Mayor Turner, it was the consensus of the Council to move forward as discussed.

Mayor Turner opened the floor for Public Comment.

Arlene Lynes questioned the necessity of the lightning detection system, noting the phone apps that are available to do this. She expressed support for the portable restrooms, noting this is the number one complaint that Square business owners hear. She also expressed support for the Square sound system update, noting she has been told by some residents they no longer attend the Lighting of the Square event because they are unable to hear. Noting one of the areas listed in ARPA is public health, Ms. Lynes opined sidewalk improvements would fall within public health. She also expressed support for improvements to the bump outs. Opining Emricson Park can be more, she asked if perhaps this can be looked at with the update to the Comprehensive Plan.

Ms. Amy Gannon, President of Woodstock Thunder and Cheer, expressed disappointment that Thunder’s request that some of the ARPA funds be used for football amenities. She stated she has been present for Council’s previous discussions of ARPA funds and mobilized families to complete the survey, noting she has not seen any other organization come forward in this manner. Stating she is happy that T-Mobile will upgrade the ballfield, she questioned the City giving more funds to Woodstock baseball, noting they have already been given much. She opined funds for that project should be in the second or third round of discussions for ARPA funding. She stated she is excited for the Intergenerational Playground.

Mayor Turner stated the football amenities are on his second-round list, opining restrooms and concessions should be in that area. He stated he wishes to see what District 200 does with its sports programs, noting this could open up one football field for youth sports.

Mayor Turner again asked that Mr. Stelford, in partnership with the Mayor, narrow down the list discussed this evening to develop the first round of projects to bring back to Council to propose the initial projects to move forward. Staff should also develop the growth impacting items such as the water tower and utility extensions. He noted this information should be brought back to Council or sent to Councilmembers individually.

Mayor Turner asked Council to provide Staff with their input on second round items, big or small, which will be discussed at a subsequent meeting.

Councilman Tebo requested a list of the topics discussed before the next meeting so he can prioritize them.

VI. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

There were no additions or deletions to the tentative Future Agenda items.

ADJOURN

Motion by D. Flynn, second by B. Seegers, to adjourn this regular meeting of the Woodstock City Council to the next regular meeting on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers at Woodstock City Hall. Ayes: D. Flynn, L. Lohmeyer, T. Nierman, W. Piersall, B. Seegers, G. Tebo, and Mayor M. Turner. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none.

Motion carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:22 PM.

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