McHenry Times

City of Woodstock City Council met Nov. 19 

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

A regular meeting of the Woodstock City Council was called to order by Mayor Michael Turner at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 in the Council Chambers at Woodstock City Hall. He explained the Consent Calendar process and invited public participation. This meeting was livestreamed. 

A roll call was taken. 

COUNCIL MEMBERS PHYSICALLY PRESENT: Darrin Flynn, Tom Nierman, Bob Seegers, Jr., Gordon Tebo, Natalie Ziemba, and Mayor Michael Turner. 

COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT: Melissa McMahon, 

Motion by Flynn for the telephonic participation of Councilwoman McMahon, second by Tebo. All in favor. 

COUNCIL MEMBERS PHYSICALLY AND TELEPHONICALLY PRESENT: Darrin Flynn, Melissa McMahon, Tom Nierman, Bob Seegers, Jr., Gordon Tebo, Natalie Ziemba, and Mayor Michael Turner. 

COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT: None. 

STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Roscoe Stelford, City Attorney Ruth Schlossberg, Executive Director of Strategy & Planning Paul Christensen, Executive Director of Business Development Danielle Gulli, Executive Director of Operations Christina Betz, Building and Planning Department Director Joe Napolitano, City Planner Darrell Moore, Senior Codes Inspector Rob Walkington, Marketing & Communications Director Heather Arnold, Police Chief John Lieb, Deputy Chief Robert Pritchard, Deputy Chief Ray Lanz, Detective Sergeant George Kopulos, Sergeant Joshua Rapacz, Sergeant Jeremy Mortimer, Sergeant Constantino Cipolla, Officer Nicholas Bernardi, Officer Michael Butler, Detective Matthew Prentice, Detective David Sharp, Officer Christopher Gallman, Detective Samuel Gustafson, Officer Davide Dempsey, Public Works Director Brent Aymond, Engineering Director Chris Tiedt, Utilities Manager Mike Rousey, Internal Services Supervisor Joe Czysczon, Parks & Streets Supervisor John Mecklenburg, Maintenance Worker Dan Puzzo, Maintenance Worker Matt Stoll, Crew Leader Brandon Eddy, Crew Leader Tad Lester, Retired Accountant Ruth Ann Lieb, Assistant Library Director Martha Hansen, Library Assistant Shawn Wickersheim, Parks and Recreation Director Mark Pentecost, Recreation Center Manager Mary Lynn Lisk, Recreation Program Manager Alan Dunker, Economic Development Director Jessica Erickson, Business Development Manager Laura Cullotta, Marketing Assistant Jonathon Napiorkowski, City Manager's Office Assistant Bernie Walker and City Clerk Jane Howie. 

OTHERS PRESENT: Mr. Jim Savio, Sikich and East Dundee Chief of Police Joshua Fourdyce, former Woodstock Detective Sergeant. 

City Clerk Howie confirmed the agenda is a true and correct copy of the published agenda. 

III. FLOOR DISCUSSION 

Anyone wishing to address the Council on an item not already on the agenda may do so at this time. 

A. Recognition of Services 

1. 2024 Employee Service Awards 

Mayor Turner called employees forward to receive their recognition and award for five, ten, twenty, twenty-five, thirty and thirty-five years of employment with the City of Woodstock. 

B. Proclamation 

1. Retirement of Deputy Chief Robert Pritchard 

Mayor Turner thanked Deputy Chief Pritchard on his thirty years of service with the City of Woodstock's Police Department. He mentioned that DC Pritchard was hired on September 9, 1994. Mayor Turner read the Proclamation for all to hear, which was received with hearty applause. 

DC Pritchard thanked everyone in attendance and shared his appreciation for the opportunity he's had here in Woodstock. He shared some memorable stories and thanked his family and his work family. 

C. Presentation 

1. Woodstock Water Works Pool Report 2024 

Director Pentecost shared information pertaining to the report that was presented this evening. He said that Woodstock Water Works (WWW) is trending very well. He added that for the first time since COVID-19, WWW has gotten their numbers back up to a good place. The Report showed that they're posed to end this fiscal year in the positive, financially. They've had increases in attendance, which has exceeded pre-COVID-19 numbers. In addition, he said the general revenues were better, partly due to Woodstock's hot, dry summer weather. 

Councilman Seegers said he heard that Director Pentecost is running the Rec Center more like a business, which pleases him. Regarding resident surveys, he noted that residents have complained about hours not being long enough, and closing early on hot summer nights. He asked Director Pentecost if they can stagger employees' work schedules to allow for extended hours to accommodate working families? In response, Director Pentecost said they've had to deal with some staffing issues, so that's not always workable. However, this is something they can explore going forward. Councilman Seegers commended Director Pentecost on a job well done! 

Councilman Tebo mentioned that some boilers were down for some time this season. 

Councilman Flynn congratulated Director Pentecost on a great year! Discussion ensued pertaining to resident vs. non-resident fees, and the request to look into the fee structure further. 

In response to a question from Councilman Seegers pertaining to the concession revenue of $3,800, Executive Director Gulli said this represents the payment from an outside service provider. This is the fee the City receives. She added that Director Pentecost is looking into bringing this in-house. 

Mayor Turner thanked Director Pentecost for being innovative, creative, and serving the customer like a private business would. It's important that staff is serving the customers, Director Pentecost thanked Becky Vidales and her staff. He said excellence in customer service is their goal. 

Councilman Nierman said he heard some compliments this year on the look of the facility; curb appeal helps a lot. Director Pentecost thanked Public Works for their assistance. 

2. FY23/24 Audit Presentation 

Transmittal and Council's Acceptance of the FY23/24 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and the Auditor's Communication to the Members of City Council. 

Mr. Jim Savio, Partner with Sikich LLP, thanked everyone for their time this evening. He thanked Executive Director Christensen for his assistance, along with his staff. Mr. Savio went through the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report at a high level. He then went through the Independent Auditor's Report. Mayor Turner asked for items that should be highlighted. There was a brief discussion about software licenses. They mentioned that the Old Courthouse Center presented some challenges. Mr. Savio stated that there were no material weaknesses or deficiencies identified within the City's internal controls. 

Mayor Turner thanked Mr. Savio for his expertise and for his work with the City of Woodstock. He said he relies on Mr. Savio and the reputation of him and his firm. He knows that the City of Woodstock has been award-winning on their finances for many, many years. 

D. Public Comments: None. 

E. Council Comments: 

Councilman Tebo thanked Opera House Director Campbell for providing the Henry Winkler event, even in the midst of the construction. He said it was a wonderful event! 

Councilwoman Ziemba mentioned the recent apartment fire that occurred in Woodstock last week. She said, even in the midst of tragedy, people seek a silver lining. She added that Woodstock has a resilient community which came together along with the American Red Cross, Mr. Tom Wilson, Mr. Rob Mutert and St. John's Church. She thanked everyone for their support and assistance. 

Councilwoman Ziemba also shared that Woodstock was recently listed as one of nine of the most captivating small towns in Illinois. 

Mayor Turner thanked Woodstock Fire/Rescue District, Woodstock Police Department, the American Red Cross, along with Ms. Jackie Speciale for providing immediate needs for those residents effected by the apartment fire. He added that donations are still being accepted by The Community Foundation for McHenry County, to assist those affected. The Foundation started the account with $10,000. He urged all to donate, if possible. 

Councilman Nierman mentioned that the Rotary Club delivered the Santa Hut to the Square last Saturday morning in preparation for the upcoming holiday events. Mayor Turner added that the new perimeter lighting in the Square will be included in the Lighting of the Square event. 

IV. CONSENT AGENDA 

Motion by Flynn, second by Nierman to approve the Consent Agenda. 

In response to a question from Mayor Turner, no items were removed from the Consent Agenda by Council or the Public. 

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

Item D-2 

Mayor Turner said, as it pertains to Ordinance - Approval and Adoption of Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2024, this is a significant step for the City. Executive Director Betz thanked and recognized several staff members for all their work on this project, which began in 2023. She thanked Mayor Turner and Council members for their support for this road map for improvements to Parks and Recreation. She thanked the Design Workshop team, Ballard*King & Associates, the Parks & Recreation Commission, Project Lead the Way, the Woodstock High School Advisory Committee, City Manager Stelford, along with a core City team for all their hard work. She specially named Director Mark Pentecost, retired Recreation Department Director Dave Zinnen, Public Works Director Brent, Aymond, and Administrative Analyst Nicole Lewakowski, who was a shining star for this project. She added that Ms. Lewakowski coordinated meetings and kept everyone on task. Her value went beyond her role; she shared valuable feedback; she is a true leader. 

Councilman Tebo asked if the addition of an ice-skating rink is still a priority. In response, Executive Director Gulli said this came up in focus groups as a desirable amenity. Councilman Tebo shared that he hopes staff can find a way to include it on the Die Cast site. Mayor Turner agreed that an ice-skating rink is definitely on his list. Director Erickson said she will continue to explore this amenity on the Die Cast site. She asked if there's an overall list of priorities that can be shared with her. Executive Director Betz said there are some lists of key priorities. Information is available, which was identified years ago, that each park should be looked at along with amenities for each park. 

Councilman Nierman said this is a great report! He said what stood out to him was the plan- based areas, of the needs in each area, along with the Ballard King section; very impactful. 

Councilwoman McMahon stated that she would like to see a skate park included as one of the park's amenities. She opined, this would fit the needs of many youth in the area. Executive Director Betz said that came up in the community workshops; discussion ensued. 

Councilman Seegers gave kudos to past leaders of the city, as Woodstock is hitting a high percentage of the mark. 

Councilman Tebo asked for an update on the intergenerational inclusive playground. It was mentioned that the parking lot is being constructed. The playground, shelter, ADA restroom, and fitness court have been completed. The parking lot still needs asphalt, which could occur this fall, depending on weather; but will be completed in the spring of 2025 at the latest. Councilwoman McMahon asked about signage for both the new playground and the sled hill. She wanted the community to know that the sled hill is still open and available. Mayor Turner asked staff to communicate this information thru social media. 

Item D-4 

Mayor Turner stated, as it pertains to Ordinance - Purchase and Sale Agreement - 411 Leah Lane - Prairie View, this would be an investment for the City. This is an opportunity for the City to purchase this property. He thanked staff, especially Executive Director Gulli and City Attorney Schlossberg, for their creativity. 

Item D-5 

Mayor Turner said, as it pertains to Ordinance - Redevelopment Agreement Amendment -- Graham Property, he is thrilled that this project is making progress, which is the result of this staff and Council. He reminded Council that the City requested that the road, which is a privately owned driveway, be improved. He thanked Graham group for getting this done. 

Item D-6 

Mayor Turner said, as it pertains to Ordinance -- Repealing Chicago Hubs Realty (CHR) Redevelopment Agreement, is a disappointment. He said CHR was a good partner with good intent; however, they were unable to secure the financing needed for this project. This item ends the agreement, which allows the City to broaden discussions. This is a City-owned and City- controlled property in the TIF district. He added that the City is going to market to find options to get this property developed. Executive Director Gulli said part of Director Erickson's goal is to look at, and update/enhance, the Downtown Plan, and to capture things that have changed over the years. Councilman Tebo opined that the City's process for the Die Cast site was very thorough. 

Councilman Seegers shared that he has a lot of experience in failed contracts. He said this is not bad at all. He said now we can get beyond this and learn from this experience. He agreed that Council and staff did everything they could. He said he's excited about what's to come. 

Item D-7 

Mayor Turner said, as it pertains to Contract Award - South Wastewater Treatment Plant - Phosphorous Improvements, this is required by the state of Illinois EPA. The City did this in the most economical way, while still meeting their requirements. This is a core responsibility to follow the law by other governing bodies. The City has to pay for this plant upgrade; however, the City will try and find grants or other sources of funds, with water and sewer rates being also considered in the future. This Council will need to consider alternatives on how to fund these required improvements which goes beyond just the phosphorous upgrades. 

In response to questions from Councilman Tebo, Utilities Manager Rousey shared information about the costs and options that were presented by the state of Illinois. He added that the state doesn't like to use chemical treatments; however, the cost of chemical treatment is far more economical. He explained the various options a bit more. Councilman Tebo asked if the City will have to deal with the nitrogen in approximately ten years. Utilities Manager Rousey opined a similar recommendation will occur again in the future. He stated that the Kishwaukee River is a challenge. In addition, he shared that Woodstock may be subject to new requirements in the future. Discussion ensued. Mayor Turner thanked Utilities Manager Rousey for this information. 

Councilman Seegers asked if Utilities Manager Rousey's team is part of an association that can lobby in regards to these issues as a group. He shared information about the chemicals that are used on farm fields. Manager Rousey said he forwarded information to City Manager Stelford, which was then forwarded to the City's Lobbyist. One of the items is in regards to future regulation concerning PFAS/PFOS. Discussion ensued pertaining to the requirements for lead service lines, Mayor Turner mentioned the undue burden of lead service lines, PFAS/PFOS, phosphorous, and what the costs are. Executive Director Betz said there are some water and sewer needs; staff is looking for any grants possible. Mayor Turner thanked Utilities Manager Rousey for his information. 

Mayor Turner affirmed the Consent Agenda to include Items A - D-7, as follows: 

A. ACCEPTANCE OF CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 

1. November 5, 2024 City Council Minutes 

B. WARRANTS 

1. #4124 

2. #4125

C. MINUTES AND REPORTS 

1. Environmental Commission Minutes October 3, 2024

2. Woodstock Opera House Advisory Commission Minutes August 20, 2024

3. Woodstock Opera House Advisory Commission Minutes September 24, 2024

D. MANAGER'S REPORT NO. 260: 

1. Ordinance - Sign Variations -- 118 E. Calhoun Street (Escape Room) (260a) Approval of Ordinance #24-0-67, identified as Doc. 1, granting Sign Variations from the Woodstock Unified Development Ordinance to allow a wall sign at 118 East Calhoun Street, Woodstock, Illinois. 

2. Ordinance - Approval and Adoption of Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2024 (260b)

Approval of Ordinance #24-0-68, identified as Doc. 2, to adopt the Final Draft, as presented, of the City of Woodstock Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2024. 

3. Ordinance - Purchase Agreement - 225 & 231 E. Calhoun Street (260c)

Approval of Ordinance #24-0-69, identified as Doc. 3, authorizing the City to purchase the property being .35 acres +/- at 225 & 231 E. Calhoun Street, and enabling the City Manager, or his designee, to execute the real estate purchase contract, and take all steps necessary to implement the terms of said agreement, subject to final review by the City Attorney. 

4. Ordinance - Purchase and Sale Agreement - 411 Leah Lane – Prairie View (260d)

Approval of Ordinance #24-0-70, identified as Doc. 4, Authorizing a Purchase and Sale Agreement with 2018 IAVF Prairie View LLC for the acquisition of property located at 411 Leah Lane, Woodstock, Illinois 60098, commonly referred to as "Prairie View" as presented, and authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute said agreement and take all steps necessary to implement the terms of said agreement, subject to final review and approval by the City Attorney. 

5. Ordinance - Redevelopment Agreement Amendment – Graham Property (260e)

Approval of Ordinance #24-0-71, identified as Doc. 5, approving a First Amendment to a Redevelopment Agreement by and among the City of Woodstock, McHenry County, Illinois, Graham Enterprise, Inc., Red Crown Investments, LLC - 155, and Red Crown Investments, LLC -855. 

6. Ordinance - Repealing Chicago Hubs Realty (CHR) Redevelopment Agreement (260f)

Approval of Ordinance #24-0-72, identified as Doc. 6, of the City of Woodstock, McHenry County, Illinois, repealing Resolution No. 22-R-30, “A Resolution of the City of Woodstock McHenry County, Illinois, Designating Chicago Hubs Realty, LLC, as the Exclusive Developer in Connection with the Redevelopment of Certain Property Within the Woodstock TIF #2- Downtown & Route 47 Redevelopment Project Area," and Ordinance No. 24-0-07, "An Ordinance Approving a Redevelopment Agreement By and Between the City of Woodstock, McHenry County, Illinois, and Chicago Hubs Realty, LLC." 

7. Contract Award - South Wastewater Treatment Plant - Phosphorous Improvements (260g) 

Approval to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to execute: 

a. A professional services agreement with Manusos General Contracting, Inc. of Fox Lake, IL. for the construction and upgrades of necessary facilities at the South Wastewater Treatment Plant to reduce Phosphorus levels below .5 mg/l for a cost not to exceed $4,741,600. 

b. A professional services agreement with Trotter and Associates, Inc. of Saint Charles, IL for the construction project management for a cost not to exceed $391,500. 

Ayes: Flynn, McMahon, Nierman, Seegers, Tebo, Ziemba, and Mayor Turner. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried to approve the Consent Agenda. 

V. EXECUTIVE SESSION 

Personnel (Open Meetings Act: 5ILCS 120/2(c)(1)) 

The appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance or dismissal of specific employees of the public body, including hearing testimony on a complaint lodged against an employee to determine its validity. 

A. City Manager's Mid-Year Performance Evaluation 

Motion by Flynn to move into Executive Session, second by Tebo at 8:55 p.m. 

Ayes: Flynn, McMahon, Nierman, Seegers, Tebo, Ziemba, and Mayor Turner. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried. 

After a short break, Council went into Executive Session at 9:02 p.m. 

The Council adjourned from Executive Session at 11:10 p.m.; Open Session resumed at 11:10 p.m. 

VI. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS: No comments. 

VII ADJOURN 

Motion by Flynn, second by Seegers to adjourn this regular meeting of the Woodstock City Council to the Regular Council meeting on Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Woodstock City Hall. 

Ayes: Flynn, McMahon, Nierman, Seegers, Tebo, Ziemba, and Mayor Turner. Nays: none. Abstentions: none. Absentees: none. Motion carried. 

The meeting adjourned at 11:11 p.m.

https://www.woodstockil.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_11192024-318