Category Archives: Uncategorized

Crosswalk Survey

 

Crosswalk Survey Printable

CHANGE OF LOCATION FOR CITY OFFICES

NPDES Permit Program Public Notice/Fact Sheet of Draft Modified NPDES Permit to Discharge into Waters of the State

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Agenda — City Council Meeting 06/10/2024

AGENDA

 BENTON CITY COUNCIL MEETING ON

MONDAY, JUNE 10, 2024

5:00 P.M.

 

  1. CALL TO ORDER

 

  1. ROLL CALL

 

  1. READING AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES

 

  1. PUBLIC PROPERTY REPORT                 COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA
  2. APPROVAL OF PURCHASE ORDERS
  3. DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF REPAIRS TO THE POLICE DEPARTMENT BUILDING
  4. DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF IMPLEMENTING THE USE OF WORK ORDERS

 

  1. STREETS & IMPROVEMENTS                                                    COMMISSIONER COCKRUM
  2. APPROVAL OF PURCHASE ORDERS
  3.     APPROVAL OF POOL ADJUSTMENTS
  4. DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF LAKE LOT LEASE TRANSFER(S)

 

  1. PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY REPORT                                 COMMISSIONER STOREY
  2. APPROVAL OF PURCHASE ORDERS/UPDATES/DEPARTMENT REPORTS 
  3. DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF DISPOSING OF SURPLUS PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT IN THE

POLICE DEPARTMENT

 

  1. ACCOUNTS & FINANCE REPORT                                 COMMISSIONER KAYS
  2. APPROVAL OF PAYROLL
  3. APPROVAL OF PURCHASE ORDERS/MONTHLY BILLS
  4. DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF ATTENDING 2023 ILLINOIS MUNICIPAL LEAGUE CONFERENCE

 

  1. CITY ATTORNEY TOM MALKOVICH
  2. UPDATES

 

  1. PUBLIC AFFAIRS REPORT                                 MAYOR MESSERSMITH
  2. UPDATES
  3. APPROVAL OF PURCHASE ORDERS
  4. DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF THE APPLICATION FOR A SPECIAL USE PERMIT MADE BY ELIZABETH BISCHOFF TO OWN AND OCCUPY A NEW DOUBLE WIDE MOBILE HOME LOCATED AT 1005 ENTERPRISE STREET
  5. DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF THE APPLICATION FOR ZONING CHANGE MADE BY RILEY AND LEANN ROBERTS TO CHANGE THE ZONING OF PARCEL #08-18-227-012 FROM B-6 TO R-2

 

  1. MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS

 

  1. OLD BUSINESS

 

  1. NEW BUSINESS

 

  1. MATTERS FROM THE PUBLIC AUDIENCE

 

  1. EXECUTIVE SESSION
  2.      DISCUSSION OF POSSIBLE ACQUISITION AND/OR SALE OF REAL ESTATE                                                  
  3. DISCUSSION OF POSSIBLE AND/OR PENDING LITIGATIONS
  4. DISCUSSION OF POSSIBLE APPOINTMENT, EMPLOYMENT, COMPENSATION,

DISCIPLINE, PERFORMANCE, OR DISMISSAL OF SPECIFIC EMPLOYEES OF THE

PUBLIC BODY OR LEGAL COUNSEL FOR THE PUBLIC BODY, INCLUDING HEARING

TESTIMONY ON A COMPLAINT LODGED AGAINST AN EMPLOYEE OF THE PUBLIC

BODY OR AGAINST LEGAL COUNSEL FOR THE PUBLIC BODY TO DETERMINE

ITS VALIDITY.

 

ADJOURNMENT                                                                                 POSTED 06/06/2024 4:00 P.M./BC

Proposed Fiscal Year Budget – FY24/25

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AMENDED AGENDA — 03/11/2024

 

 

AMENDED AGENDA

 BENTON CITY COUNCIL MEETING ON

MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2024

5:00 P.M.

 

  1. CALL TO ORDER

 

  1. ROLL CALL

 

  1. READING AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES

 

  1. PUBLIC PROPERTY REPORT                 COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA
  2. APPROVAL OF PURCHASE ORDERS
  3. DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF HIRING DAVID BOOKER FOR MOWING, TERM OF 1 YEAR

 

  1. STREETS & IMPROVEMENTS                                                    COMMISSIONER COCKRUM
  2. APPROVAL OF PURCHASE ORDERS
  3.     APPROVAL OF POOL ADJUSTMENTS
  4. DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF LAKE LOT LEASE TRANSFER(S)

 

  1. PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY REPORT                                 COMMISSIONER STOREY
  2. APPROVAL OF PURCHASE ORDERS/UPDATES/DEPARTMENT REPORTS 

 

  1. ACCOUNTS & FINANCE REPORT                                 COMMISSIONER KAYS
  2. APPROVAL OF PAYROLL
  3. APPROVAL OF PURCHASE ORDERS/MONTHLY BILLS
  4. DISCUSSION AND OR APPROVALOF EMPLOYEE COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

 

  1. CITY ATTORNEY TOM MALKOVICH
  2. UPDATES

 

  1. PUBLIC AFFAIRS REPORT                                 MAYOR MESSERSMITH
  2. UPDATES
  3. APPROVAL OF PURCHASE ORDERS
  4. DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF ACCEPTING RESIGNATION OF AIRPORT BOARD MEMBER REECE RUTLAND
  5. DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF STRATEGIC PLANNING UPDATES
  6. DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF THE PETITION FOR ANNEXATION SUBMITTED BY CAROL AND MAURICE PHILLIPS TO ANNE THE PROPERTY COMMONLY KNOWN AS 1208 SOUTH MCLEANSBORO STREET INTO THE CORPORATE BOUNDARY OF THE CITY OF BENTON
  7. DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF THE APPLICATION FOR SPECIAL USE PERMIT SUBMITTED BY ANDREW KALLY TO OWN AND OCCUPY AN EXISITNG DOUBLE WIDE MOBILE HOME LOCATED AT 611 EAST GARDNER STREET
  8. DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF CREATING AN AMENDMENT TO CHAPTER 40-ZONING PERTAINING TO ADULT-USE CANNIBAS
  9. DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF PROPOSAL FROM SIMEC REGARDING ELECTRIC AGGREGATION

 

  1. MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS

 

  1. OLD BUSINESS

 

  1. NEW BUSINESS

 

  1. MATTERS FROM THE PUBLIC AUDIENCE

 

  1. EXECUTIVE SESSION
  2.      DISCUSSION OF POSSIBLE ACQUISITION AND/OR SALE OF REAL ESTATE                                                  
  3. DISCUSSION OF POSSIBLE AND/OR PENDING LITIGATIONS
  4. DISCUSSION OF POSSIBLE APPOINTMENT, EMPLOYMENT, COMPENSATION,

DISCIPLINE, PERFORMANCE, OR DISMISSAL OF SPECIFIC EMPLOYEES OF THE

PUBLIC BODY OR LEGAL COUNSEL FOR THE PUBLIC BODY, INCLUDING HEARING

TESTIMONY ON A COMPLAINT LODGED AGAINST AN EMPLOYEE OF THE PUBLIC

BODY OR AGAINST LEGAL COUNSEL FOR THE PUBLIC BODY TO DETERMINE

ITS VALIDITY.

 

ADJOURNMENT                                                                                 POSTED 03/09/2024 8:00 A.M./BC

Upcoming Strategic Planning Meeting – 03/12/2024

The City of Benton will hold a strategic planning meeting Tuesday, March 12, 2024, 5 p.m., at The Buzz on the Public Square. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss plans, needs, and issues that may arise in the next 5-10 years in order to help our council prepare. This is an open meeting and the public is welcome to attend. No action will be taken on any items during this meeting.

Strategic Planning Meeting

AGENDA

 STRATEGIC PLANNING MEETING ON

TUESDAY, MARCH 12, 2024

5:00 P.M.

AT “THE BUZZ” ON THE SQUARE

 

  1. CALL TO ORDER

 

  1. ROLL CALL

 

  1. INTRODUCTION BY MODERATOR                                            JIM MUIR

 

  1. PUBLIC PROPERTY REPORT                         COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA
  2. UPDATES & PLANS   

 

  1. STREETS & IMPROVEMENTS                                                             COMMISSIONER COCKRUM
  2. UPDATES & PLANS   
  3. PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR CRAIG MILES

 

  1. PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY REPORT                                 COMMISSIONER STOREY
  2. UPDATES & PLANS   
  3. CHIEF SHANE COCKRUM
  4. CHIEF CHRIS FUNKHOUSER

 

  1. ACCOUNTS & FINANCE REPORT                                      COMMISSIONER KAYS
  2. UPDATES & PLANS   

 

  1. CITY ATTORNEY             TOM MALKOVICH
  2. UPDATES & PLANS   

 

  1. PUBLIC AFFAIRS REPORT                                 MAYOR MESSERSMITH
  2. UPDATES & PLANS
  3. ZONING ADMINISTRATOR/ECOMONIC DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR BRIAN CALCATERRA
  4. CODE ENFORCER CALEB CAVINS

 

  1. MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS

 

  1. OLD BUSINESS

 

  1. NEW BUSINESS

 

  1. MATTERS FROM THE PUBLIC AUDIENCE

 

  1. EXECUTIVE SESSION
  2.      DISCUSSION OF POSSIBLE ACQUISITION AND/OR SALE OF REAL ESTATE                                                  
  3. DISCUSSION OF POSSIBLE AND/OR PENDING LITIGATIONS
  4. DISCUSSION OF POSSIBLE APPOINTMENT, EMPLOYMENT, COMPENSATION,

DISCIPLINE, PERFORMANCE, OR DISMISSAL OF SPECIFIC EMPLOYEES OF THE

PUBLIC BODY OR LEGAL COUNSEL FOR THE PUBLIC BODY, INCLUDING HEARING

TESTIMONY ON A COMPLAINT LODGED AGAINST AN EMPLOYEE OF THE PUBLIC

BODY OR AGAINST LEGAL COUNSEL FOR THE PUBLIC BODY TO DETERMINE

ITS VALIDITY.

 

ADJOURNMENT                                                                                 POSTED 03/07/2024 4:00 P.M./BC

CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES — DECEMBER 11, 2023

MINUTES OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED BENTON CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD MONDAY DECEMBER 11, 2023 AT 5 P.M. IN THE BENTON MUNICIPAL BUILDING LOCATED AT 1403 SOUTH MAIN STREET BENTON, ILLINOIS.

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH CALLED THE MEETING TO ORDER.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS¸ COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH WERE PRESENT FOR ROLL CALL. 

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON MONDAY NOVEMBER 27, 2023, HELD AT 5 P.M.  SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0. 

 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT SHE HAD NO BUSINESS FOR THIS COUNCIL MEETING. 

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00237 COLEMAN LAWN EQUIPMENT FOR A 12-VOLT HIGH OUTPUT ELECTRIC MOTOR FOR A SNOW EX 8500 SALT SPREADER IN THE AMOUNT OF $567.00.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER KAYS.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #000994 TO IPEG FOR A MECHANICAL SEAL, ROTOR, STARTER, AND JOINT KIT FOR THE SLUDGE PRESS IN THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT IN THE AMOUNT OF $3,745.42.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER KAYS.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT THERE ARE NO POOL ADJUSTMENTS FOR THIS MEETING. 

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE LAKE LOT LEASE TRANSFER FOR LOT #`117 FROM JOHN MCCREERY TO J. WILLIAM MCCREERY.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT HE HAD BEEN APPROACHED BY PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR CRAIG MILES ABOUT NAMING THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT AFTER PREVIOUS PUBLIC PROPERTIES COMMISSIONER RONNIE BAUMGARTE.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT MR. BAUMGARTE WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN GETTING THIS PLANT BUILT AND HE FELT LIKE THIS WAS A GOOD IDEA TO HONOR HIM.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO NAME THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT THE BAUMGARTE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT AS AN UPDATE, HE WANTED TO LET THE COUNCIL AND THE CITIZENS KNOW THAT WASTENA STREET HAS BEEN OPENED BACK UP TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM ALSO STATED THAT HE WANTED TO LET EVERYONE KNOW THAT THE SEWER VACUUM TRUCK IS SCHEDULED TO BE DELIVERED DECEMBER 12, 2023.  MAYOR MESSERSMITH ADDED THAT THE TRUCK HAS BEEN ORDERED FOR OVER A YEAR AND THE COMPANY HONORED OUR ORIGINAL BID AMOUNT AND ALSO AGREED TO STILL GIVE US THE SAME AMOUNT FOR TRADE IN AS INITIALLY QUOTED.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT THE CITY DID NOT HAVE TO TAKE A LOAN TO PAY FOR THIS TRUCK AND HE CREDITED THAT TO THE SEWER SURCHARGE. 

 

COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT HE HAD NO PURCHASE ORDERS OR UPDATES.  COMMISSIONER STOREY DID DISBURSE A DEPARTMENT REPORT FOR THE FIRE DEPARTMENT TO THE COUNCIL.  THE REPORT SHOWED THAT FROM 11/01/2023 TO 11/30/2023 THE FIRE DEPARTMENT RESPONDED TO 13 FIRES, 21 RESCUE AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE CALLS, 4 HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS WITH NO FIRE, 3 SERVICE CALLS, 4 GOOD INTENT CALLS, 5 FALSE ALARM CALLS, AND 1 SPECIAL INCIDENT TYPE.  THIS TOTAL FOR 51 CALLS IN THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER. 

 

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE MERIT BOARD DOING TESTING FOR THE POLICE OFFICER LIST.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO TABLE ITEM (C) DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF ALLOWING THE POLICE DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT TO WORK 10-HOUR DAYS.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PAYROLL DATED 12/08/2023 FOR GENERAL FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $83,043.02 AND WATER AND SEWER IN THE AMOUNT OF $27,048.52 FOR A TOTAL OF $110,091.54.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT HE HAD NO PURCHASE ORDERS FOR THIS MEETING. 

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO PAY BILLS IN THE AMOUNT OF $295,386.02.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT THE BREAKDOWN OF THESE BILLS IS $13,398.59 FROM THE TIF FUND, $27,101.65 FROM THE MFT FUND, AND $254,885.78 FROM THE AP FUND.  SECONDING OF THIS MOTION WAS DONE BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 TAX LEVY, ORDINANCE #2023-20.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT THE LEVY AMOUNT WAS RAISED THE 5% ALLOWED WITHOUT A PUBLIC HEARING OR REFERENDUM.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA. STREAM ALL CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS BEGINNING AT THE FIRST MEETING IN JANUARY 2024.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE APPROVAL FOR HIM TO ACQUIRE FUNDING FOR THE ACEI BORING PROJECT.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT HE HAS SPOKEN WITH PEOPLE’S NATIONAL BANK IN THE PAST WITH ABOUT THIS AND WOULD LIKE TO DO THE FUNDING THROUGH THEM AS THE WATER AND SEWER FUNDS ARE KEPT IN THIS BANK AND IT WOULD MAKE TRANSFERS LESS COMPLICATED.  COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE THE MOTION FOR COMMISSIONER KAYS TO BEGIN THE PROCESS OF ACQUIRING FUNDING FOR THE ACEI BORING PROJECT THROUGH PEOPLE’S NATIONAL BANK.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT A DRAFT VERSION OF THE CITY’S AUDIT HAS BEEN RECEIVED.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED OTHER THAN THE AUDITORS STATING OUR WORKFORCE IS TOO SMALL IN THE OFFICE AND WE NEED MORE SEGREGATION OF DUTIES, THE CITY RECEIVED A GLOWING REVIEW. 

 

ATTORNEY MALKOVICH STATED THAT AS AN UPDATE, CENTRAL DISPATCH HAS SENT A PROPOSED AMOUNT FOR DISPATCH SERVICES CONTRACT WITH AN INCREASE OF 15%.  ATTORNEY MALKOVICH STATED THAT IF THE CITY CHOOSES TO STAY WITH CENTRAL DISPATCH THE PAYMENT WILL GO FROM $120,000.00 PER YEAR ($10,000.00 PER MONTH), TO $138,000.00 PER YEAR ($11,500.00 PER MONTH.  COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT HE HAS BEEN IN CONTACT WITH WEST CITY TO SEE IF THEY WOULD LIKE TO OFFER US A BID FOR DISPATCH AS WELL.  

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE STATE HOW PLEASED HE IS TO SEE THE COMMUNITY PARTICIPATING IN EVENTS BEING HELD AROUND TOWN.  HE STATED THAT HE HOPES TO SEE MORE OF THIS IN THE FUTURE AS WELL. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00488 TO H&R AGRI-POWER FOR HYDRAULIC SYSTEM REPAIR ON THE TRACTOR AT THE AIRPORT IN THE AMOUNT OF $968.75.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THIS PURCHASE ORDER.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00489 TO FW ELECTRIC FOR REPAIR OF BROKEN HANGAR/PARKING LOT LIGHTS BY CONVERTING TO LED FIXTURES AND ADDING A LIGHT OVER THE FUEL STATION AT THE AIRPORT IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,075.00.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00490 TO WWW.WESTTECHEQUIPMENT.COM FOR ONE (1) AVIATION FUEL NOZZLE REPLACEMENT AND ONE (1) SEALANT IN THE AMOUNT OF $389.01.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE NEEDS A MOTION APPROVING ORDINANCE #2023-21 REGARDING THE ILLINOIS PAID LEAVE FOR ALL WORKERS ACT FOR THE CITY OF BENTON.  COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS:  0. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH ASKED ZONING ADMINISTRATOR BRIAN CALCATERRA TO HANDLE ITEMS (D), (E), (F), (G), AND (H). 

 

ZONING ADMINISTRATOR BRIAN CALCATERRA STATED THAT THE PROPERTY FORMERLY HOUSING BEN’S LAWN SERVICE IS IN THE PROCESS OF BEING PURCHASED.  THE BUSINESS THAT IS BEING LOCATED TO THIS PROPERTY WILL BE OPERATING A BUSINESS THAT WILL BE DOING BODY AND FENDER WORK.  MR. CALCATERRA STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO GET A MOTION AMENDING DIVISION XX-SCHEDULES OF THE REVISED CODE OF ORDINANCES ALLOWING BODY AND FENDER WORK BY SPECIAL USE PERMIT IN THE B3- AND B-6 ZONING DISTRICTS.  COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE ORDINANCE #2023-22 AMENDING CHAPTER 40, ZONING ORDINANCE DIVISION XX- SCHEDULES, SECTION 40-3-95.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

ZONING ADMINISTRATOR BRIAN CALCATERRA STATED THAT THE PROPERTY HE JUST DESCRIBED ALSO MAY BE SELLING VEHICLES.  THIS WOULD ALSO NEED AN ORDINANCE AMENDED IN ORDER TO ALLOW THIS.  MR. CALCATERRA STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO GET A MOTION AMENDING DIVISION XX-SCHEDULES OF THE REVISED CODE OF ORDINANCES ALLOWING AUTOMOBILE, NEW AND USED SALES, BY SPECIAL USE PERMIT IN THE B3- AND B-6 ZONING DISTRICTS.  COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE ORDINANCE #2023-23 AMENDING CHAPTER 40, ZONING ORDINANCE DIVISION XX- SCHEDULES, SECTION 40-3-95.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

ZONING ADMINISTRATOR BRIAN CALCATERRA STATED THAT HE HAS A SIMILAR SITUATION TO THE SITUATION ABOVE.  MR. CALCATERRA STATED THAT 618FIXMYRV WOULD LIKE TO BEGIN SELLING NEW CAMPERS AT HIS BUSINESS IN THE INDUSTRIAL PARK.  MR. CALCATERRA STATED THAT IN ORDER TO DO THIS AN AMENDMENT NEEDED TO BE MADE TO CHAPTER 40, ZONING ORDINANCE, SECTION 40-3-117, BUSINESS ACTIVITY/USE SCHEDULE TO INCLUDE RECREATIONAL VEHICLES, CAMPERS, ATVS, MOTORCYCLES, BOATS, AND PERSONAL WATERCRAFT.  COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION APPROVING ORDINANCE #2023-24 AMENDING SECTION 40-3-117 BUSINESS ACTIVITY/USE SCHEDULE TO INCLUDE RECREATIONAL VEHICLES, CAMPERS, ATVS, MOTORCYCLES, BOATS, AND PERSONAL WATERCRAFT.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

ZONING ADMINISTRATOR BRIAN CALCATERRA STATED THAT HE HAD RECEIVED A PETITION TO VACATE A 20-FOOT-WIDE ALLEY RUNNING NORTH AND SOUTH A DISTANCE OF 280 FEET THAT IS SITUATED WEST OF LOTS 1, 2, 3, & 4 AND EAST OF LOTS 5, 6, 7, & 8, ALL IN BLOCK 6 IN LAYMAN’S ADDITION TO THE CITY OF BENTON, SITUATED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY, ILLINOIS.  MR. CALCATERRA STATED THAT ALL FEES HAVE BEEN PAID AND IT HAS BEEN APPROVED BY THE PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSIONER.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE ORDINANCE #2023-5 VACATING THIS ALLEY.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE OPEN THE DISCUSSION REGARDING ADULT USE CANNABIS.  MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT IT IS EVENTUALLY GOING TO BECOME LEGAL FEDERALLY AND IF WE DO NOT HAVE AN ORDINANCE IN PLACE, IT WILL BE DICTATED TO US ON HOW TO HANDLE THE SITUATION.  MR. CALCATERRA STATED THAT HE AGREED WITH MAYOR MESSERSMITH AND WOULD LIKE TO CREATE AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 40, ZONING, PERTAINING TO ADULT-USE CANNABIS.  COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO CREATE AN ORDINANCE PERTAINING TO ADULT-USE CANNABIS.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT THE CITY HAD RECEIVED INVOICE #2 FROM BROWN AND ROBERTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $15,301.46 REGARDING THE APRON PROJECT AT THE AIRPORT.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THIS INVOICE IN THE AMOUNT OF $15,301.46.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT RECENTLY THE COUNCIL HAD APPROVED A FORM FOR CAPITAL PARK USE.  ON FURTHER INSPECTION OF THIS FORM, IT WAS NOTED THAT THE FORM WAS MADE FOR BUSINESS AND NOT FOR NONPROFIT.  MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE NEEDED A MOTION TO APPROVE THE AMENDMENTS TO THIS FORM MAKING IT WORK FOR USE BY NONPROFITS AS WELL.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH ASKED AIRPORT MANAGER MATTHEW HARRISON TO ADDRESS THE COUNCIL ON YEAREND UPDATES FOR THE MUNICIPAL AIRPORT.   MR. HARRISON STATED THAT THE APRON PROJECT WOULD BE COVERED PARTIALLY WITH A GRANT AND THAT USUALLY THE GRANTS ARE 100% FULLY REIMBURSED TO THE AIRPORT.  MR. HARRISON STATED THAT HE RECENTLY PURCHASED $33,000.00 WORTH OF FUEL FOR THE AIRPORT AND THAT HE HAD RECEIVED A GRANT FOR $26,000.00 REIMBURSING FUEL COSTS FOR THE AIRPORT.  MR. HARRISON STATED THAT THE RUNWAY RODEO WAS A SUCCESS AND HE HAS BEEN LOOKING INTO POTENTIAL FUNDING FOR HAVING MORE EVENTS SUCH AS THIS ON AIRPORT PROPERTY.  MR. HARRISON STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO TRY AND DRIVE EXPANSION AT THE AIRPORT AT THIS POINT.  HE STATED THAT HE IS INTERESTED IN BUILDING A CORPORATE SIZED HANGAR AT THE AIRPORT AND THIS PROJECT WOULD RUN BETWEEN $1.2 AND $1.3 MILLION.  MR. HARRISON STATED THAT HE DOES HAVE AT LEAST ONE BUSINESS INTERESTED IN COMING TO THE AIRPORT PROPERTY AT THIS TIME AND THAT IF THIS BUSINESS WERE TO LOCATE HERE, PEOPLE COULD TAKE FLYING LESSONS AT OUR AIRPORT.  MR. HARRISON STATED THAT HE DID NOT THINK WE WOULD EVER BE ABLE TO HAVE AN AIRLINE THROUGH THE BENTON AIRPORT, BUT HE DID BELIEVE THAT WITH THE CORPORATE HANGAR, CHARTER FLIGHTS WOULD BECOME AVAILABLE.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA ASKED WHERE WE WERE WITH REGARDS TO RUNWAY EXPANSION.  MR. HARRISON STATED THAT HE IS NOT EVEN ABLE TO TALK TO THE FAA REGARDING THIS SUBJECT UNTIL THE NEED FOR RUNWAY EXTENSION HAS BEEN SHOWN. 

 

THERE WAS NO MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS. 

 

IN OLD BUSINESS, COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT THE POLICE DEPARTMENT IS STILL IN NEED OF SWITCHING THEIR LIGHTING TO LED AS THEY ARE HAVING TO REPLACE LOTS OF BALLAST OF LATE.  COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT HE WOULD ADDRESS THIS AS AN AGENDA ITEM AT THE NEXT MEETING. 

 

THERE WAS NO NEW BUSINESS.

 

NO MATTERS OF FROM THE PUBLIC AUDIENCE. 

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO ADJOURN THE MEETING.  SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

6:30 P.M.

CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES — DECEMBER 11, 2023

MINUTES OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED BENTON CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD MONDAY DECEMBER 11, 2023 AT 5 P.M. IN THE BENTON MUNICIPAL BUILDING LOCATED AT 1403 SOUTH MAIN STREET BENTON, ILLINOIS.

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH CALLED THE MEETING TO ORDER.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS¸ COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH WERE PRESENT FOR ROLL CALL. 

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON MONDAY NOVEMBER 27, 2023, HELD AT 5 P.M.  SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0. 

 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT SHE HAD NO BUSINESS FOR THIS COUNCIL MEETING. 

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00237 COLEMAN LAWN EQUIPMENT FOR A 12-VOLT HIGH OUTPUT ELECTRIC MOTOR FOR A SNOW EX 8500 SALT SPREADER IN THE AMOUNT OF $567.00.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER KAYS.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #000994 TO IPEG FOR A MECHANICAL SEAL, ROTOR, STARTER, AND JOINT KIT FOR THE SLUDGE PRESS IN THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT IN THE AMOUNT OF $3,745.42.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER KAYS.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT THERE ARE NO POOL ADJUSTMENTS FOR THIS MEETING. 

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE LAKE LOT LEASE TRANSFER FOR LOT #`117 FROM JOHN MCCREERY TO J. WILLIAM MCCREERY.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT HE HAD BEEN APPROACHED BY PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR CRAIG MILES ABOUT NAMING THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT AFTER PREVIOUS PUBLIC PROPERTIES COMMISSIONER RONNIE BAUMGARTE.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT MR. BAUMGARTE WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN GETTING THIS PLANT BUILT AND HE FELT LIKE THIS WAS A GOOD IDEA TO HONOR HIM.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO NAME THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT THE BAUMGARTE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER COCKRUM STATED THAT AS AN UPDATE, HE WANTED TO LET THE COUNCIL AND THE CITIZENS KNOW THAT WASTENA STREET HAS BEEN OPENED BACK UP TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM ALSO STATED THAT HE WANTED TO LET EVERYONE KNOW THAT THE SEWER VACUUM TRUCK IS SCHEDULED TO BE DELIVERED DECEMBER 12, 2023.  MAYOR MESSERSMITH ADDED THAT THE TRUCK HAS BEEN ORDERED FOR OVER A YEAR AND THE COMPANY HONORED OUR ORIGINAL BID AMOUNT AND ALSO AGREED TO STILL GIVE US THE SAME AMOUNT FOR TRADE IN AS INITIALLY QUOTED.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT THE CITY DID NOT HAVE TO TAKE A LOAN TO PAY FOR THIS TRUCK AND HE CREDITED THAT TO THE SEWER SURCHARGE. 

 

COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT HE HAD NO PURCHASE ORDERS OR UPDATES.  COMMISSIONER STOREY DID DISBURSE A DEPARTMENT REPORT FOR THE FIRE DEPARTMENT TO THE COUNCIL.  THE REPORT SHOWED THAT FROM 11/01/2023 TO 11/30/2023 THE FIRE DEPARTMENT RESPONDED TO 13 FIRES, 21 RESCUE AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE CALLS, 4 HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS WITH NO FIRE, 3 SERVICE CALLS, 4 GOOD INTENT CALLS, 5 FALSE ALARM CALLS, AND 1 SPECIAL INCIDENT TYPE.  THIS TOTAL FOR 51 CALLS IN THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER. 

 

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE MERIT BOARD DOING TESTING FOR THE POLICE OFFICER LIST.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO TABLE ITEM (C) DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF ALLOWING THE POLICE DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT TO WORK 10-HOUR DAYS.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PAYROLL DATED 12/08/2023 FOR GENERAL FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $83,043.02 AND WATER AND SEWER IN THE AMOUNT OF $27,048.52 FOR A TOTAL OF $110,091.54.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT HE HAD NO PURCHASE ORDERS FOR THIS MEETING. 

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO PAY BILLS IN THE AMOUNT OF $295,386.02.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT THE BREAKDOWN OF THESE BILLS IS $13,398.59 FROM THE TIF FUND, $27,101.65 FROM THE MFT FUND, AND $254,885.78 FROM THE AP FUND.  SECONDING OF THIS MOTION WAS DONE BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 TAX LEVY, ORDINANCE #2023-20.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT THE LEVY AMOUNT WAS RAISED THE 5% ALLOWED WITHOUT A PUBLIC HEARING OR REFERENDUM.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA. STREAM ALL CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS BEGINNING AT THE FIRST MEETING IN JANUARY 2024.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE APPROVAL FOR HIM TO ACQUIRE FUNDING FOR THE ACEI BORING PROJECT.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT HE HAS SPOKEN WITH PEOPLE’S NATIONAL BANK IN THE PAST WITH ABOUT THIS AND WOULD LIKE TO DO THE FUNDING THROUGH THEM AS THE WATER AND SEWER FUNDS ARE KEPT IN THIS BANK AND IT WOULD MAKE TRANSFERS LESS COMPLICATED.  COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE THE MOTION FOR COMMISSIONER KAYS TO BEGIN THE PROCESS OF ACQUIRING FUNDING FOR THE ACEI BORING PROJECT THROUGH PEOPLE’S NATIONAL BANK.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED THAT A DRAFT VERSION OF THE CITY’S AUDIT HAS BEEN RECEIVED.  COMMISSIONER KAYS STATED OTHER THAN THE AUDITORS STATING OUR WORKFORCE IS TOO SMALL IN THE OFFICE AND WE NEED MORE SEGREGATION OF DUTIES, THE CITY RECEIVED A GLOWING REVIEW. 

 

ATTORNEY MALKOVICH STATED THAT AS AN UPDATE, CENTRAL DISPATCH HAS SENT A PROPOSED AMOUNT FOR DISPATCH SERVICES CONTRACT WITH AN INCREASE OF 15%.  ATTORNEY MALKOVICH STATED THAT IF THE CITY CHOOSES TO STAY WITH CENTRAL DISPATCH THE PAYMENT WILL GO FROM $120,000.00 PER YEAR ($10,000.00 PER MONTH), TO $138,000.00 PER YEAR ($11,500.00 PER MONTH.  COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT HE HAS BEEN IN CONTACT WITH WEST CITY TO SEE IF THEY WOULD LIKE TO OFFER US A BID FOR DISPATCH AS WELL.  

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE STATE HOW PLEASED HE IS TO SEE THE COMMUNITY PARTICIPATING IN EVENTS BEING HELD AROUND TOWN.  HE STATED THAT HE HOPES TO SEE MORE OF THIS IN THE FUTURE AS WELL. 

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00488 TO H&R AGRI-POWER FOR HYDRAULIC SYSTEM REPAIR ON THE TRACTOR AT THE AIRPORT IN THE AMOUNT OF $968.75.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THIS PURCHASE ORDER.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00489 TO FW ELECTRIC FOR REPAIR OF BROKEN HANGAR/PARKING LOT LIGHTS BY CONVERTING TO LED FIXTURES AND ADDING A LIGHT OVER THE FUEL STATION AT THE AIRPORT IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,075.00.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00490 TO WWW.WESTTECHEQUIPMENT.COM FOR ONE (1) AVIATION FUEL NOZZLE REPLACEMENT AND ONE (1) SEALANT IN THE AMOUNT OF $389.01.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE NEEDS A MOTION APPROVING ORDINANCE #2023-21 REGARDING THE ILLINOIS PAID LEAVE FOR ALL WORKERS ACT FOR THE CITY OF BENTON.  COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH ASKED ZONING ADMINISTRATOR BRIAN CALCATERRA TO HANDLE ITEMS (D), (E), (F), (G), AND (H). 

 

ZONING ADMINISTRATOR BRIAN CALCATERRA STATED THAT THE PROPERTY FORMERLY HOUSING BEN’S LAWN SERVICE IS IN THE PROCESS OF BEING PURCHASED.  THE BUSINESS THAT IS BEING LOCATED TO THIS PROPERTY WILL BE OPERATING A BUSINESS THAT WILL BE DOING BODY AND FENDER WORK.  MR. CALCATERRA STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO GET A MOTION AMENDING DIVISION XX-SCHEDULES OF THE REVISED CODE OF ORDINANCES ALLOWING BODY AND FENDER WORK BY SPECIAL USE PERMIT IN THE B3- AND B-6 ZONING DISTRICTS.  COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE ORDINANCE #2023-22 AMENDING CHAPTER 40, ZONING ORDINANCE DIVISION XX- SCHEDULES, SECTION 40-3-95.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

ZONING ADMINISTRATOR BRIAN CALCATERRA STATED THAT THE PROPERTY HE JUST DESCRIBED ALSO MAY BE SELLING VEHICLES.  THIS WOULD ALSO NEED AN ORDINANCE AMENDED IN ORDER TO ALLOW THIS.  MR. CALCATERRA STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO GET A MOTION AMENDING DIVISION XX-SCHEDULES OF THE REVISED CODE OF ORDINANCES ALLOWING AUTOMOBILE, NEW AND USED SALES, BY SPECIAL USE PERMIT IN THE B3- AND B-6 ZONING DISTRICTS.  COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE ORDINANCE #2023-23 AMENDING CHAPTER 40, ZONING ORDINANCE DIVISION XX- SCHEDULES, SECTION 40-3-95.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

ZONING ADMINISTRATOR BRIAN CALCATERRA STATED THAT HE HAS A SIMILAR SITUATION TO THE SITUATION ABOVE.  MR. CALCATERRA STATED THAT 618FIXMYRV WOULD LIKE TO BEGIN SELLING NEW CAMPERS AT HIS BUSINESS IN THE INDUSTRIAL PARK.  MR. CALCATERRA STATED THAT IN ORDER TO DO THIS AN AMENDMENT NEEDED TO BE MADE TO CHAPTER 40, ZONING ORDINANCE, SECTION 40-3-117, BUSINESS ACTIVITY/USE SCHEDULE TO INCLUDE RECREATIONAL VEHICLES, CAMPERS, ATVS, MOTORCYCLES, BOATS, AND PERSONAL WATERCRAFT.  COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION APPROVING ORDINANCE #2023-24 AMENDING SECTION 40-3-117 BUSINESS ACTIVITY/USE SCHEDULE TO INCLUDE RECREATIONAL VEHICLES, CAMPERS, ATVS, MOTORCYCLES, BOATS, AND PERSONAL WATERCRAFT.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

ZONING ADMINISTRATOR BRIAN CALCATERRA STATED THAT HE HAD RECEIVED A PETITION TO VACATE A 20-FOOT-WIDE ALLEY RUNNING NORTH AND SOUTH A DISTANCE OF 280 FEET THAT IS SITUATED WEST OF LOTS 1, 2, 3, & 4 AND EAST OF LOTS 5, 6, 7, & 8, ALL IN BLOCK 6 IN LAYMAN’S ADDITION TO THE CITY OF BENTON, SITUATED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY, ILLINOIS.  MR. CALCATERRA STATED THAT ALL FEES HAVE BEEN PAID AND IT HAS BEEN APPROVED BY THE PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSIONER.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE ORDINANCE #2023-5 VACATING THIS ALLEY.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE OPEN THE DISCUSSION REGARDING ADULT USE CANNABIS.  MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT IT IS EVENTUALLY GOING TO BECOME LEGAL FEDERALLY AND IF WE DO NOT HAVE AN ORDINANCE IN PLACE, IT WILL BE DICTATED TO US ON HOW TO HANDLE THE SITUATION.  MR. CALCATERRA STATED THAT HE AGREED WITH MAYOR MESSERSMITH AND WOULD LIKE TO CREATE AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 40, ZONING, PERTAINING TO ADULT-USE CANNABIS.  COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO CREATE AN ORDINANCE PERTAINING TO ADULT-USE CANNABIS.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT THE CITY HAD RECEIVED INVOICE #2 FROM BROWN AND ROBERTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $15,301.46 REGARDING THE APRON PROJECT AT THE AIRPORT.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THIS INVOICE IN THE AMOUNT OF $15,301.46.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT RECENTLY THE COUNCIL HAD APPROVED A FORM FOR CAPITAL PARK USE.  ON FURTHER INSPECTION OF THIS FORM, IT WAS NOTED THAT THE FORM WAS MADE FOR BUSINESS AND NOT FOR NONPROFIT.  MAYOR MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE NEEDED A MOTION TO APPROVE THE AMENDMENTS TO THIS FORM MAKING IT WORK FOR USE BY NONPROFITS AS WELL.  COMMISSIONER COCKRUM MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

MAYOR MESSERSMITH ASKED AIRPORT MANAGER MATTHEW HARRISON TO ADDRESS THE COUNCIL ON YEAREND UPDATES FOR THE MUNICIPAL AIRPORT.   MR. HARRISON STATED THAT THE APRON PROJECT WOULD BE COVERED PARTIALLY WITH A GRANT AND THAT USUALLY THE GRANTS ARE 100% FULLY REIMBURSED TO THE AIRPORT.  MR. HARRISON STATED THAT HE RECENTLY PURCHASED $33,000.00 WORTH OF FUEL FOR THE AIRPORT AND THAT HE HAD RECEIVED A GRANT FOR $26,000.00 REIMBURSING FUEL COSTS FOR THE AIRPORT.  MR. HARRISON STATED THAT THE RUNWAY RODEO WAS A SUCCESS AND HE HAS BEEN LOOKING INTO POTENTIAL FUNDING FOR HAVING MORE EVENTS SUCH AS THIS ON AIRPORT PROPERTY.  MR. HARRISON STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO TRY AND DRIVE EXPANSION AT THE AIRPORT AT THIS POINT.  HE STATED THAT HE IS INTERESTED IN BUILDING A CORPORATE SIZED HANGAR AT THE AIRPORT AND THIS PROJECT WOULD RUN BETWEEN $1.2 AND $1.3 MILLION.  MR. HARRISON STATED THAT HE DOES HAVE AT LEAST ONE BUSINESS INTERESTED IN COMING TO THE AIRPORT PROPERTY AT THIS TIME AND THAT IF THIS BUSINESS WERE TO LOCATE HERE, PEOPLE COULD TAKE FLYING LESSONS AT OUR AIRPORT.  MR. HARRISON STATED THAT HE DID NOT THINK WE WOULD EVER BE ABLE TO HAVE AN AIRLINE THROUGH THE BENTON AIRPORT, BUT HE DID BELIEVE THAT WITH THE CORPORATE HANGAR, CHARTER FLIGHTS WOULD BECOME AVAILABLE.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA ASKED WHERE WE WERE WITH REGARDS TO RUNWAY EXPANSION.  MR. HARRISON STATED THAT HE IS NOT EVEN ABLE TO TALK TO THE FAA REGARDING THIS SUBJECT UNTIL THE NEED FOR RUNWAY EXTENSION HAS BEEN SHOWN. 

 

THERE WAS NO MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS. 

 

IN OLD BUSINESS, COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT THE POLICE DEPARTMENT IS STILL IN NEED OF SWITCHING THEIR LIGHTING TO LED AS THEY ARE HAVING TO REPLACE LOTS OF BALLAST OF LATE.  COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT HE WOULD ADDRESS THIS AS AN AGENDA ITEM AT THE NEXT MEETING. 

 

THERE WAS NO NEW BUSINESS.

 

NO MATTERS OF FROM THE PUBLIC AUDIENCE. 

 

COMMISSIONER KAYS MADE A MOTION TO ADJOURN THE MEETING.  SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER COCKRUM.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS: 5.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER KAYS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER COCKRUM, AND MAYOR MESSERSMITH.  NAYS: 0.  

 

6:30 P.M.