Category Archives: Meeting Minutes

MINUTES OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED BENTON CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD MONDAY FEBRUARY 8, 2021 AT 6:00 P.M.   PURSUANT TO THE GOVERNOR’S EXECUTIVE ORDER IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19 ISSUED MARCH 16, 2020, THIS MEETING WAS HELD BY TELEPHONE CONFERENCE, COMPUTER ATTENDANCE, AND IN PERSON.

MAYOR KONDRITZ CALLED THE MEETING TO ORDER.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ WERE PRESENT FOR ROLL CALL.  MAYOR KONDRITZ AND COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA BOTH ATTENDED THE MEETING VIA ZOOM AND COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND COMMISSIONER STOREY ATTENDED THE MEETING IN PERSON. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JANUARY 25, 2021.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

MAYOR KONDRITZ STATED THAT HE HAD NO UPDATES OR PURCHASE ORDERS.

MAYOR KONDRITZ ASKED CITY ATTORNEY TOM MALKOVICH TO DISCUSS ITEM (C) DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF CONTRACT.  ATTORNEY MALKOVICH STATED THAT AN AGREEMENT HAD BEEN REACHED BETWEEN THE WATER, SEWER, AND STREET DEPARTMENT AND THE CITY OF BENTON.  ATTORNEY MALKOVICH STATED THAT A MOTION NEEDED TO BE MADE ALLOWING THE MAYOR TO SIGN THIS CONTRACT.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH MADE A MOTION TO ALLOW MAYOR KONDRITZ TO EXECUTE HIS SIGNATURE ON THE UNION CONTRACT FOR WATER, SEWER, AND STREETS FOR THE TERM OF 2020-2024.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER PERKINS.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

MAYOR KONDRITZ ASKED CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER/ZONING ADMINISTRATOR DAVID GARAVALIA TO DISCUSS ITEM (D) DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT FOR TECHNICAL AND CONSULTING SERVICES FOR GRANT APPLICATION FOR ABANDONED RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY MUNICIPAL RELIEF PROGRAM.  MR. GARAVALIA STATED THAT IF APPROVED, THE CITY WOULD BE ABLE TO GET A MAXIMUM OF $50,000.00 THAT WOULD BE USED TO REIMBURSE FOR HOMES DEMOLISHED WITHIN THE LAST YEAR OR TO DEMOLISH HOMES THIS YEAR.  IN ORDER TO FILE THE APPLICATION FOR THIS GRANT, IT WILL COST THE CITY OF BENTON $1,900.00 AT A MAXIMUM IF WE WERE DENIED.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH ASKED WHERE THE MONEY FOR THE APPLICATION WOULD COME FROM AND MR. GARAVALIA STATED HE COULD FIND IT IN HIS BUDGET, POSSIBLY FROM THE MOWING LINE ITEM.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO PROCEED WITH APPLICATION FOR THIS GRANT.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS STATED HE HAD NO ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION AT THIS MEETING. 

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH ASKED DAVID HARP OF CHASTAIN AND ASSOCIATES TO PROVIDE A PROJECT STATUS REPORT FOR THE I-57 INTERCHANGE.  MR. HARP STATED THAT HE HAD SPOKEN WITH CARRIE NELSON AT IDOT THIS AFTERNOON AND THAT THEY WERE GIVEN THE GREENLIGHT TO MOVE FORWARD WITH PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT ON THE PROJECT.  MR. HARP ALSO STATED THAT HE WOULD BE PROCEEDING WITH A PLANNING PROJECT MEETING WITHIN THE WEEK.   

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO MAKE A MOTION TO PROCEED WITH ADVERTISING FOR TAKING BIDS ON MOSQUITO ABATEMENT FOR THE CITY OF BENTON FOR 2021.  THIS MOTION WAS SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED HE HAD NO ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION AT THIS MEETING. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PAYROLL FEBRUARY 5, 2021 IN THE AMOUNT OF $85,601.74.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO ALLOW CITY EMPLOYEES TO BE PAID FOR TIME OFF TO TAKE THE COVID-19 VACCINE.  A DISCUSSION WAS HELD REGARDING HOW LONG OF A PERIOD OF TIME SHOULD BE ALLOWED OFF FOR GETTING THE VACCINE.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA REVISED HER MOTION.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA’S NEW MOTION WAS TO ALLOW CITY EMPLOYEES TO HAVE ONE HOUR OF PAID TIME OFF TO OBTAIN A COVID VACCINE IN THE CITY OF BENTON AND TWO HOURS TO OBTAIN A COVID VACCINE OUT OF THE CITY OF BENTON AND THIS IS FOR BOTH DOSES OF THE VACCINE.  MOTION WAS SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0.  COMMISSIONER STOREY LEFT THE MEETING BEFORE THE VOTE WAS TAKEN TO GO TO WORK.  

ATTORNEY MALKOVICH STATED THAT HE HAD NO FURTHER ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION AT THIS MEETING.

NO MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS. 

UNDER OLD BUSINESS, COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH ASKED WHAT WAS HAPPENING WITH THE EXPIRED CONTRACT FOR CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER/ZONING ADMINISTRATOR DAVID GARAVALIA.  COMMISSIONER PERKINS STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO KNOW AS WELL BECAUSE A LOT OF CITIZENS HAVE ASKED HIM IF THE POSITION WILL BE OPEN.  MAYOR KONDRITZ STATED THAT MR. GARAVALIA WILL BE RETIRING, BUT HE HAS SOME PROJECTS TO SEE THROUGH BEFORE DOING SO.  MAYOR KONDRITZ STATED THAT HE BELIEVED THEY WILL BE SEARCHING FOR A REPLACEMENT IN APPROXIMATELY 60 DAYS. 

NO NEW BUSINESS.

NO MATTERS FROM THE PUBLIC AUDIENCE. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO CONTINUE THIS MEETING UNTIL FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2021 FOR PAYMENT OF BILLS.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.    VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

MINUTES OF THE REGULAR BENTON CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD MONDAY JANUARY 25, 2021 AT 6:00 P.M.   PURSUANT TO THE GOVERNOR’S EXECUTIVE ORDER IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19 ISSUED MARCH 16, 2020, THIS MEETING WAS HELD BY TELEPHONE CONFERENCE, COMPUTER ATTENDANCE, AS WELL AS IN PERSON.

MAYOR KONDRITZ CALLED THE MEETING TO ORDER.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ WERE PRESENT FOR ROLL CALL.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA ATTENDED VIA ZOOM.  

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF JANUARY 11, 2021 REGULARLY SCHEDULED CITY COUNCIL MEETING.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00651 FOR A CHANGE ORDER AND RELEASE OF RETAINER ON THE ROUTE 37 WATERMAIN RELOCATION PROJECT TO WIGGS EXCAVATING IN THE AMOUNT OF $7,134.18.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS ASKED AIRPORT MANAGER MATTHEW HARRISON TO GIVE AN UPDATE ON AIRPORT EVENTS AND PURCHASE REQUESTS.  MR. HARRISON STATED THAT THE TERMINAL CONSTRUCTION IS COMING TO A CLOSE AND INSTALLATION OF THE SELF-SERVE PUMP IS VERY NEAR.  HE ALSO STATED THAT THE CURRENT INTERNET SERVICE AT THE AIRPORT IS NOT OPTIMAL AND WOULD LIKE PERMISSION TO USE CLEARWAVE FIBER OPTIC BUSINESS INTERNET FOR THE PRICE AT $299.00 MONTHLY.  MR. HARRISON ALSO STATED THAT THE TERMINAL WILL NEED A SECURITY CAMERA, A WIRELESS ROUTER TO SERVICE 2500 SQ FT TERMINAL WITH MULTIPLE USERS, A COMPUTER, A PRINTER/COPIER, A COFFEE MACHINE, A TELEVISION, AND A TELEPHONE.  MR. HARRISON STATED THAT THE TERMINAL WILL NEED TO BE FURNISHED AND THAT HE PLANS ON SEEKING DONATIONS TO HELP WITH THIS.  COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE MOVING FORWARD WITH THESE PURCHASES.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO PAY AN INVOICE TO BROWN AND ROBERTS FOR FINAL PAYMENT FOR THE DESIGN PHASE ON THE NEW TERMINAL BUILDING AT THE AIRPORT IN THE AMOUNT OF $12,938.85.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO PAY AN INVOICE TO BROWN AND ROBERTS FOR FINAL PAYMENT FOR PLANNING AND SPECIAL SERVICES ON THE NEW TERMINAL BUILDING AT THE AIRPORT IN THE AMOUNT OF $926.04.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS STATED THAT IDOT HELD A BID LETTING FOR REMARKING OF THE RUNWAY AT THE AIRPORT.  FOUR BIDS WERE SUBMITTED, ROADSAFE TRAFFIC SYSTEMS IN THE AMOUNT OF $87,000.00, RIGHT WAY TRAFFIC CONTROL, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $61,375.00, STF, LLC IN THE AMOUNT OF $44,100.00, AND AXTELL’S, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $34,900.00.  THE LOW BID OF $34,900.00 FROM AXTELL’S, INC. WAS THE WINNING BID. 

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00625 TO G.L. DOWNS FOR ROOT KILLER, STREET SIGNS, AND HARDWARE IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,917.85.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE ORDINANCE #21-01 FOR A TWO WAY STOP SIGN AT THE INTERSECTION OF PUTNAM AND NORTH BROWN STREET FOR EAST AND WEST BOUND TRAFFIC.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO PAY AN INVOICE TO BROWN AND ROBERTS FOR FINAL PAYMENT FOR THE DESIGN PHASE ON THE NEW TERMINAL BUILDING AT THE AIRPORT IN THE AMOUNT OF $12,938.85.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH STATED THAT CAMP MANITOWA HAS APPROACHED HIM SEEKING APPROVAL TO TAKE DOWN AND REMOVE A TREE ON THE NORTH BENTON ROAD TO AID IN MOVING FORWARD WITH AN INSTALLATION PROJECT FOR SOUTHEASTERN ILLINOIS ELECTRIC CO-OP.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE GAVE CAMP MANITOWA PERMISSION TO MOVE FORWARD WITH THIS AND THAT THERE WILL BE NO COSTS INCURRED BY THE CITY OF BENTON FOR THIS. 

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #0038 TO REED’S HEATING AND AIR FOR REPLACEMENT OF THE FURNACE AT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $5,877.00.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER PERKINS.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00036 TO ILLINOIS FIRE SERVICE INSTITUTE FOR TWO ADVANCED TECHNICIAN FIREFIGHTER CLASSES IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,600.00.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER PERKINS.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00037 TO ILLINOIS FIRE SERVICE INSTITUTE FOR TWO INCIDENT SAFETY OFFICER CERTIFICATION CLASSES IN THE AMOUNT OF $700.00.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER PERKINS.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE ALLOWING THE POLICE AND FIRE MERIT BOARD TO MOVE FORWARD WITH THE PROCESS OF HIRING A NEW POLICE OFFICER.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER PERKINS.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PAYROLL DATED JANUARY 22, 2021 FOR THE POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $44,693.22 AND FOR THE REST OF THE DEPARTMENTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $46,798.21 FOR A TOTAL PAYROLL OF $91,491.43.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE 10 DAYS OF PAY PER EMPLOYEE FOR COVID-19 IF AN EMPLOYEE IS UNDER QUARANTINE OR IN ISOLATION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA PRESENTED TWO QUOTES ON MAINTENANCE AGREEMENTS FOR THE EVAPAR GENERATOR AT CITY HALL.  ONE QUOTE WAS FOR $650.00 AND THE OTHER QUOTE WAS FOR $940.00.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT HER RECOMMENDATION WAS FOR THE CITY TO AGREE TO A ONE-TIME MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $650.00 AND THEN DO FURTHER RESEARCH BEFORE SIGNING A MULTIYEAR AGREEMENT.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE THIS INTO A MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY. VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO OPEN AN ACCOUNT FOR CARES ACT REIMBURSEMENT.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY. VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO TABLE ITEM (F) DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF WALK-UP WINDOW IN THE WATER DEPARTMENT.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

CITY ATTORNEY THOMAS MALKOVICH STATED THAT HE HAD DRAFTED AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF BENTON FIRE DEPARTMENT AND BROWNING TOWNSHIP FOR FIRE PROTECTION SERVICE.  AT THIS TIME, THE AGREEMENT HAS NOT BEEN EXECUTED. 

UNDER UPDATES, MAYOR KONDRITZ STATED THAT HE HAS RECEIVED HIS FIRST COVID-19 VACCINE. 

MAYOR KONDRITZ ASKED ATTORNEY MALKOVICH TO HANDLE ITEM (C) DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF UNION CONTRACT.  ATTORNEY MALKOVICH STATED THAT THE UNION HAS AGREED TO THE CITY’S COUNTER OFFER FOR CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS WITH THE EXCEPTION OF ACCUMULATION OF EXTRA CARE DAYS TO INCREASE FROM 12 TO 15 PER YEAR.  COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO ACCEPT THIS CHANGE AND TO APPROVE THE UNION CONTRACT WITH UNION LOCAL #318 FOR WATER, SEWER, AND STREET.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

UNDER MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH STATED THAT THE REND LAKE WATER FESTIVAL HAS BEEN POSTPONED FOR 2021 AS WELL AS THE SD3A TOURNAMENT. 

NO OLD BUSINESS.

IN NEW BUSINESS, COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE THE COUNCIL TO BEGIN A DISCUSSION ON PEST CONTROL FOR THE CITY OF BENTON FOR 2021.  ALSO, UNDER NEW BUSINESS, MAYOR KONDRITZ STATED THAT CITY HALL WILL REOPEN TO THE PUBLIC ON JANUARY 25, 2021 AT 7:30 A.M.

NO MATTERS FROM THE PUBLIC AUDIENCE.

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO ADJOURN.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

6:45 P.M.

MINUTES OF THE REGULAR BENTON CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD MONDAY JANUARY 11, 2021 AT 6:00 P.M.   PURSUANT TO THE GOVERNOR’S EXECUTIVE ORDER IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19 ISSUED MARCH 16, 2020, THIS MEETING WAS HELD BY TELEPHONE CONFERENCE AND COMPUTER ATTENDANCE ONLY.

MAYOR KONDRITZ CALLED THE MEETING TO ORDER.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ WERE PRESENT FOR ROLL CALL. 

MAYOR KONDRITZ STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO BEGIN THE MEETING BY EXTENDING THE ENTIRE CITY OF BENTON’S CONDOLENCES TO ATTORNEY MALKOVICH FOR THE LOSS OF HIS BROTHER.  MAYOR KONDRITZ STATED THAT THE MALKOVICH FAMILY WOULD BE IN THE THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS OF THE ENTIRE COUNCIL.  ATTORNEY MALKOVICH THANKED THE COUNCIL FOR THEIR KIND WORDS. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT THE NOVEMBER 23, 2020 MINUTES HAD A TYPO THAT HAS BEEN CORRECTED.  THE DATE WAS ACCIDENTALLY PUT IN AS NOVEMBER 28, 2020.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE CORRECTED CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 23, 2020.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF DECEMBER 28, 2020 REGULARLY SCHEDULED CITY COUNCIL MEETING.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00624 TO BENTON SUPER LUBE FOR SIX (6) NEW TIRES WITH BALANCE, MOUNTING, AND DISPOSAL OF OLD TIRES FOR THE WATER DEPARTMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $984.00.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO DISCUSS ITEM (B) DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF DISCIPLINARY ACTION, IN EXECUTIVE SESSION.

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE FINALIZATION OF THE AIRPORT TERMINAL.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO PAY INVOICE #6 TO BROWN AND ROBERTS FOR THE NEW TERMINAL BUILDING AT THE AIRPORT IN THE AMOUNT OF $10,053.78.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS ASKED AIRPORT MANAGER MATTHEW HARRISON TO DISCUSS THE PROGRESS OF THE AIRPORT PROJECTS.  MR. HARRISON SAID THAT THE TERMINAL PROJECT IS WRAPPING UP AND HE BELIEVES IT WILL BE COMPLETE IN ONE TO TWO WEEKS.  HE STATED THAT THE PAY AT THE PUMP FUEL PUMP WILL BE INSTALLED IN THE NEXT FEW WEEKS.  MR. HARRISON STATED THAT THE AIRPORT IS WORKING ON SOME PROJECTS AND HE WILL KEEP THE BOARD UP TO DATE WITH WHAT IS BEING PLANNED. 

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH MADE A MOTION TO HAVE THE ATTORNEY PREPARE AN ORDINANCE FOR A TWO WAY STOP SIGN AT THE INTERSECTION OF PUTNAM AND NORTH BROWN STREET FOR EAST AND WEST BOUND TRAFFIC.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH SAID THAT THERE ARE NO STOP SIGNS THERE AND THEY HAVE RECEIVED COMPLAINTS FROM CITIZENS IN THAT NEIGHBORHOOD.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE A CHANGE ORDER FROM SAMRON MIDWEST FOR THE EAST MAIN PARKING LOT IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,232.64 FOR EXCAVATION AND DECORATIVE ROCK CREDIT.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER PERKINS.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE FINAL PAY ESTIMATE TO SAMRON MIDWEST IN THE AMOUNT OF $4,454.86.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH STATED THAT THIS AMOUNT INCLUDED THE CHANGE ORDER THAT THE COUNCIL HAD JUST APPROVED FOR THE EAST MAIN PARKING LOT.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT HE HAD NO BUSINESS TO DISCUSS. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE BILLS IN THE AMOUNT OF $327,184.87.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PAYROLL DATED JANUARY 8, 2021 FOR THE GENERAL FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $69,604.48 AND WATER AND SEWER FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $25,145.99 FOR A TOTAL PAYROLL OF $94,750.47.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

NO UPDATES FROM THE CITY ATTORNEY. 

MAYOR KONDRITZ STATED THAT ITEM (C) DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF CONTINUING UNION NEGOTIATIONS, WOULD BE DISCUSSED IN EXECUTIVE SESSION. 

NO ACTION WAS TAKEN ON ITEM (D) DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF LIQUOR/GAMING LICENSE FEE WAIVERS.

MAYOR KONDRITZ STATED THAT HE HAD ASKED EACH DEPARTMENT TO GET TOGETHER A LIST OF SURPLUS INVENTORIES AND THE COUNCIL COULD DECIDE AT A FUTURE DATE WHO TO DISPERSE THESE ITEMS. 

MAYOR KONDRITZ STATED THAT ABOUT ONCE A YEAR HE LIKES THE COUNCIL TO REVIEW THE CODE OF CONDUCT ORDINANCE AND REPORT BACK TO HIM IF THEY SEE ANY AREAS THEY BELIEVE NEED TO BE DISCUSSED. 

NO ACTION WAS TAKEN ON ITEM (G) DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF ZONING ADMINISTER/CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER CONTRACT. 

NO MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS. 

NO OLD BUSINESS.

NO NEW BUSINESS.

IN MATTERS FROM THE PUBLIC AUDIENCE, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR CRAIG MILES STATED THAT HE HAD RECENTLY INTERFERED WITH ANOTHER DEPARTMENT IN THE CITY AND HE WOULD LIKE TO PUBLICLY APOLOGIZE TO COMMISSIONER STOREY.  COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT THE APOLOGY WAS NOT GOOD ENOUGH AND THAT MR. MILES WOULD HAVE TO WORK REALLY HARD TO MAKE UP FOR THE TROUBLE HE CAUSED. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION FOR ITEM (C) 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.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

6:24 P.M.

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH MADE A MOTION TO RETURN TO REGULAR SESSION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

6:58 P.M.

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO DISCIPLINE WILLIAM J. GALLOWAY ACCORDING TO CONTRACT BY 30-DAY UNPAID SUSPENSION AFTER HE RETURNS FROM HIS WORKER’S COMPENSATION INJURY.  AFTER A MINUTE, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MOTION DIED FOR LACK OF SECOND. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO ADJOURN.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

7:00 P.M.

MINUTES OF THE REGULAR BENTON CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD MONDAY DECEMBER 28, 2020 AT 6:00 P.M.   PURSUANT TO THE GOVERNOR’S EXECUTIVE ORDER IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19 ISSUED MARCH 16, 2020, THIS MEETING WAS HELD BY TELEPHONE CONFERENCE AND COMPUTER ATTENDANCE ONLY.

MAYOR KONDRITZ CALLED THE MEETING TO ORDER.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ WERE PRESENT FOR ROLL CALL. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF DECEMBER 14, 2020 REGULARLY SCHEDULED CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE A PAY ESTIMATE FOR THE AIRPORT TERMINAL PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $74,512.80.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE REPLACING RUNWAY AND TAXIWAY LIGHTS AND CABLES, REPLACEMENT OF WIND CONE, AND REPLACEMENT OF REILS ON RUNWAY 18-36 FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2022.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH PRESENTED PURCHASE ORDER #00650 TO BRITTON’S TREE CARE FOR REMOVAL OF MULTIPLE TREES IN THE AMOUNT OF $3,750.00.  COMMISSIONER STOREY QUESTIONED AS TO WHY BIDS WERE NOT TAKEN ON THIS PROJECT.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH STATED THAT THE TREE SERVICE THE CITY HAS USED IN THE PAST WAS NOT ABLE TO BE REACHED AND THIS WAS AN EMERGENT SITUATION SO THEY FOUND ANOTHER SERVICE.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.   VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE TRANSFER OF $45,000.00 FROM THE MFT FUND FOR EQUIPMENT RENTAL.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER PERKINS.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT HE BELIEVED THE CITY’S CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS REALLY LACKED THIS YEAR AND WOULD LIKE THE CITY TO DO BETTER IN THE FUTURE.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED SHE WOULD LIKE TO SEE THE PUBLIC GET INVOLVED WITH DECORATING THE CITY AS WELL.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH STATED THAT BECAUSE OF THE CONSTRUCTION ON THE BENTON SQUARE, THE CITY WAS NOT ABLE TO DO AS MUCH DECORATING AND HAS HOPES THAT THERE WILL BE MORE DONE IN THE FUTURE.  

COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT IS PROGRESSING. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PAYROLL DATED DECEMBER 23, 2020 FOR THE GENERAL FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $61,624.04, WATER AND SEWER FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $29,131.76, AUXILIARY POLICE IN THE AMOUNT OF $325.75, AND PAID ON CALL FIREFIGHTERS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,224.40 FOR A TOTAL PAYROLL OF $92,305.95.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

NO UPDATES FROM THE CITY ATTORNEY. 

NO ACTION TAKEN UNDER THE PUBLIC AFFAIRS REPORT FROM THE MAYOR. 

NO MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS. 

NO OLD BUSINESS.

NO NEW BUSINESS.

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO ADJOURN.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

6:15 P.M.

MINUTES OF THE CONTINUED BENTON CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD FRIDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2020 AT 9:00 A.M.   PURSUANT TO THE GOVERNOR’S EXECUTIVE ORDER IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19 ISSUED MARCH 16, 2020, THIS MEETING WAS HELD BY TELEPHONE CONFERENCE AND COMPUTER ATTENDANCE ONLY.

MAYOR KONDRITZ CALLED THE MEETING TO ORDER.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ WERE PRESENT FOR ROLL CALL.  COMMISSIONER PERKINS WAS ABSENT. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE BILLS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,005,302.42.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH MADE A MOTION TO ADJOURN.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

9:05 A.M.

MINUTES OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED BENTON CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD MONDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2020 AT 6:00 P.M.   PURSUANT TO THE GOVERNOR’S EXECUTIVE ORDER IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19 ISSUED MARCH 16, 2020, THIS MEETING WAS HELD BY TELEPHONE CONFERENCE AND COMPUTER ATTENDANCE ONLY.

MAYOR KONDRITZ CALLED THE MEETING TO ORDER.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ WERE PRESENT FOR ROLL CALL.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA ATTENDED THE MEETING VIA ZOOM AND ALL OTHER COMMISSIONERS AND THE MAYOR ATTENDED IN PERSON. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF OCTOBER 26, 2020.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

MAYOR KONDRITZ ASKED BOB REA OF THE FRANKLIN COUNTY HISTORIC PRESERVATION SOCIETY TO SPEAK TO THE COUNCIL REGARDING THE HISTORIC JAIL MUSEUM.  MR. REA SHOWED THE COUNCIL NUMEROUS SAMPLES OF SHINGLES HE WOULD LIKE TO USE TO REPLACE THE ROOF ON THE JAIL MUSEUM.  HE STATED THAT THE RECOMMENDATION FROM THE ROOFER WAS TO GO WITH A COLOR CALLED BLACK PEARL AND HE STATED THAT THIS WOULD MATCH THE NEW COURTHOUSE.  ZONING ADMINISTRATOR AND CODE ENFORCER DAVID GARAVALIA RECOMMENDED THAT THE COUNCIL APPROVE TO REPAIR THE ROOF AND TUCK POINTING ON THE HISTORIC JAIL MUSEUM IN THE AMOUNT OF $35,215.00 TO BE PAID FROM THE DOWNTOWN TIF FUND.  COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

MAYOR KONDRITZ ASKED DAVE HARP FROM CHASTAIN AND ASSOCIATES TO PROVIDE AN UPDATE REGARDING THE I-57 INTERCHANGE.  MR. HARP STATED THAT THE PROJECT IS MOVING A LITTLE SLOWER BECAUSE OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, BUT ASSURED THE COUNCIL THAT THINGS ARE STILL MOVING ALONG. 

MAYOR KONDRITZ ASKED AIRPORT BOARD MEMBER AND MANAGER MATTHEW HARRISON TO GIVE AN UPDATE ON THE AIRPORT.  MR. HARRISON STATED THAT HE HAD BUSINESS CARDS MADE TO PASS OUT SO THAT PEOPLE WOULD KNOW HOW TO GET A HOLD OF HIM AND HE PASSED THESE OUT TO THE COUNCIL.  MR. HARRISON REPORTED THAT HE IS CURRENTLY WORKING WITH BOARD MEMBER GARRETT COLLIER TO SET UP AN AIRPORT WEBSITE.  MR. HARRISON STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO HAVE AN OPEN HOUSE FOR THE NEW TERMINAL IN APRIL, WHICH WILL COINCIDE WITH THE 75^TH BIRTHDAY OF THE AIRPORT AS WELL.  MR. HARRISON ALSO PROVIDED THE COUNCIL WITH MINUTES FROM THE LAST AIRPORT BOARD MEETING. 

MAYOR KONDRITZ STATED THAT HE AND COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH HAD TOURED THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT EARLIER IN THE DAY.  MAYOR KONDRITZ STATED THAT HE WAS REALLY IMPRESSED WITH THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT AND COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH AGREED.

MAYOR KONDRITZ SPOKE ON THE TIER 2 RESURGENCE MITIGATIONS PLACED BY THE GOVERNOR.  MAYOR KONDRITZ URGED OUR CITIZENS TO LIMIT GATHERINGS AND WEAR THEIR MASKS.  THE MITIGATIONS HAVE BEEN PLACED ON THE CITY’S WEBSITE FOR REVIEW. 

MAYOR KONDRITZ PRESENTED PURCHASE ORDER #00645 TO HEARTLAND OFFICE SUPPLY FOR TOUCHLESS HAND SANITIZER DISPENSERS, DISPENSER STANDS, AND HAND SANITIZER FOR EACH CITY BUILDING IN THE AMOUNT OF $3,253.46.  THIS WILL BE REIMBURSED BY THE CARES ACT.  MOTION TO APPROVE THIS WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

MAYOR KONDRITZ PRESENTED PURCHASE ORDER #00642 TO RSP HEATING AND COOLING FOR TWO CARRIER OPTI-CLEAN NEGATIVE AIR MACHINES TO BE INSTALLED AT CITY HALL IN THE AMOUNT OF $12,227.00.  THE COST OF THESE MACHINES WILL BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE CARES ACT.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

MAYOR KONDRITZ PRESENTED PURCHASE ORDER #00640 TO CONCEPTE OF ILLINOIS FOR 2 LENOVO LAPTOPS WITH WINDOWS 10 AND MICROSOFT OFFICE 2019 IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,920.00.  THESE LAPTOPS WILL BE AVAILABLE IN CASE WORK NEEDS TO BE DONE FROM HOME.  THIS COST WILL BE REIMBURSED BY THE CARES ACT.  MOTION WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

MAYOR KONDRITZ STATED THAT HE WOULD A MOTION TO PASS THE ORDINANCE PROHIBITING THE USE OF ATV’S ON CITY OWNED PROPERTIES.  COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE ORDINANCE 20-13 PROHIBITING ATV USAGE ON CITY OWNED PROPERTIES.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  3.  COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  2.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH AND COMMISSIONER PERKINS. 

MAYOR KONDRITZ ASKED ZONING ADMINISTRATOR AND CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER DAVID GARAVALIA TO SPEAK TO THE COUNCIL REGARDING USING TIF FUNDS TO REPAIR THE ROOF AT THE 1910’S FRANKLIN COUNTY GARAGE MUSEUM.  MR. GARAVALIA STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO REPAIR THE ROOF ON THE CAR MUSEUM FOR A COST OF $38,101.00 TO BE PAID FROM THE DOWNTOWN TIF FUND.  COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

MAYOR KONDRITZ ASKED ZONING ADMINISTRATOR AND CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER DAVID GARAVALIA TO DISCUSS THE REZONING OF 123-127 NORTH FRISCO STREET FROM R2 TO I-1.  MR. GARAVALIA STATED THAT THIS WAS THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE ZONING BOARD AND THAT THIS MADE SENSE.  COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO TABLE ITEM (B) DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF LAKE LOT LEASE TRANSFER FOR LOT #7.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 20-08 UNRESTRICTING FUNDS FROM THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PAY ESTIMATE #2 TO WIGGS EXCAVATING FOR THE ROUTE 37 WATERMAIN RELOCATION IN THE AMOUNT OF $30,533.80.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PAY ESTIMATE #5 TO MIDWEST PETROLEUM AND EXCAVATING FOR THE AIRPORT TERMINAL PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $86,965.20.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH. VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO PAY INVOICE #5 TO BROWN AND ROBERTS FOR THE AIRPORT TERMINAL PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $12,795.91.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE AN INCREASE TO THE AIRPORT TERMINAL PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $12,310.00.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00622 TO F.W. ELECTRIC FOR A BATTERY BACKUP FOR THE TRAFFIC LIGHTS AT THE INTERSECTION OF NORTH MAIN AND ILLINOIS AVENUE IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,000.00.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH STATED THAT THIS WILL CORRECT THE FLASHING LIGHTS THAT HAVE BEEN HAPPENED REPEATEDLY OVER THE PAST MONTH.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH MADE A MOTION TO CLOSE INDUSTRIAL PARK DRIVE FROM BAILEY LANE TO EAST ILLINOIS AVENUE FOR THE THIRD ANNUAL SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS LIGHT PARADE HOSTED BY THE BENTON ELKS.  THE ROAD CLOSURE WOULD BE FROM 5:30 P.M. TO 7:00 P.M. ON DECEMBER 19, 2020.  MAYOR KONDRITZ STATED HE DID NOT FEEL THAT THIS ROAD SHOULD BE CLOSED DOWN.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA SECONDED THE MOTION MADE BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  4. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, AND COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  NAYS:  1.  MAYOR KONDRITZ.   

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO DISCUSS DONATION OF SURPLUS BARRICADES TO THE ELKS SO THEY COULD USE THEM DURING EVENTS SUCH AS THE LIGHT PARADE.  MAYOR KONDRITZ STATED THAT HE THINKS THE BARRICADES MAY BE OF BETTER USE AT TWIN OAKS.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH MADE A MOTION TO TABLE THIS ITEM UNTIL FURTHER RESEARCH INTO THE USE OF THE BARRICADES COULD BE DONE.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.    VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PAYMENT OF SIDEWALK INSPECTION PARTIAL PAYMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $7,500.00 TO JOHN H. CRAWFORD.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER PERKINS.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH MADE A MOTION TO PAY THE PARTIAL PAY ESTIMATE #2 TO B.C. CONTRACTING FOR THE SIDEWALK REPLACEMENT PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $110,442.60.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER PERKINS.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WANTED TO LET THE COUNCIL KNOW THAT SAMRON WOULD BEGIN WORKING ON THE EAST MAIN PARKING LOT ON WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2020.  MAYOR KONDRITZ STATED THAT HE WAS GLAD TO GET THIS UPDATE. 

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE #00032 TO IAMRESPONDING.COM FOR ANNUAL SOFTWARE AGREEMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $735.00.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER PERKINS.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00092 TO SICJTP FOR MTU-15 TRAINING DUES IN THE AMOUNT OF $960.00.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO RAISE THE PURCHASE ORDER AMOUNT FROM $250.00 TO $500.00.  COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT HE AND CHIEF COCKRUM HAVE CALLED AROUND AND NO ONE ELSE IN SOUTHERN ILLINOIS REQUIRES A PURCHASE ORDER BE FILLED OUT FOR SUCH A SMALL AMOUNT OF MONEY AND HE STATED THAT THIS MAKES IT HARD FOR HIS DEPARTMENTS TO BE ABLE TO PURCHASE ANYTHING.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT THE REQUIREMENT FOR FILLING OUT A PURCHASE ORDER IS TO KEEP DEPARTMENT HEADS ACCOUNTABLE FOR THE TAXPAYER MONEY THAT IS BEING SPENT.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA ALSO STATED THAT THE AUDITORS HAVE MENTIONED THAT THERE DOES NOT SEEM TO BE ENOUGH DOCUMENTATION ON THE SPENDING OF MONEY.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH STATED THAT HE WOULD BE WILLING TO INCREASE THE PURCHASE ORDER AMOUNT ON A TRIAL BASIS FOR 90 DAYS AND THAT IF THE PURCHASE ORDERS WERE NOT BEING FILLED OUT, THAT THE AMOUNT WOULD STAY AT $250.00.  COMMISSIONER STOREY AGREED TO RAISING THE AMOUNT ON A TRIAL BASIS.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH THEN SECONDED THE MOTION.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  1.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.

COMMISSIONER STOREY STATED THAT THE FOREIGN FIRE BOARD WOULD LIKE PERMISSION TO CONSTRUCT AN OUT BUILDING AT THE FIRE STATION.  CHIEF SHANE COCKRUM STATED THAT IF THEY WERE ALLOWED TO BUILD THIS BUILDING, IT WOULD CLEAR UP A LOT OF ROOM BEING USING TO STORE EQUIPMENT IN THE BAY.  CHIEF COCKRUM STATED THAT THE FIREMEN ARE PLANNING TO DO ALL LABOR ON THE BUILDING THEMSELVES TO SAVE ON COSTS AND THAT IF THERE IS ANY CONCRETE WORK, THEY HOPE TO BE ABLE TO USE THE STREET DEPARTMENT WORKERS FOR HELP WITH THIS.  ZONING ADMINISTRATOR AND CODE ENFORCER DAVID GARAVALIA STATED THAT THIS BUILDING NEEDS TO COMPLY WITH ALL ZONING REQUIREMENTS AND WOULD LIKE TO SEE A BUILDING PLAN.  COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO ALLOW THE FOREIGN FIRE BOARD TO GET PLANS ON BUILDING THIS OUTBUILDING.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER PERKINS.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER STOREY ASKED CHIEF COCKRUM TO SPEAK ON ITEM (D) DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF MOVING THE FIRE DEPARTMENT BOAR TO SURPLUS AND PREPARING FOR A SEALED BID.  CHIEF COCKRUM STATED THAT MABAS WILL BE PROVIDING THE BENTON FIRE DEPARTMENT WITH A NEW RESCUE BOAT AND HE WOULD LIKE TO MOVE THE CURRENT BOAT TO SURPLUS ONCE THE NEW BOAT HAS BEEN RECEIVED.  COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE THIS MOTION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER PERKINS.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE ORDER #00644 TO THE ILLINOIS MUNICIPAL LEAGUE IN THE AMOUNT OF $825.00 FOR ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP DUES.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PAYROLL FOR THE GENERAL FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $59,815.14 AND FOR THE WATER AND SEWER DEPARTMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $26,905.95 FOR A TOTAL PAYROLL OF $86,721.09.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

ATTORNEY MALKOVICH STATED THAT A COUNTER PROPOSAL ON BARGAINING UNIT NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE WATER, SEWER, AND STREET DEPARTMENTS HAD BEEN RECEIVED AND HE WOULD LIKE TO DISCUSS THIS IN EXECUTIVE SESSION. 

NO MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS. 

NO OLD BUSINESS.

NO NEW BUSINESS.

NO MATTERS FROM THE PUBLIC AUDIENCE. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION FOR ITEM (C) 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.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

7:55 P.M.

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH MADE A MOTION TO RETURN TO REGULAR SESSION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

8:15 P.M.

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO CONTINUE NEGOTIATIONS WITH LOCAL 318.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO CONTINUE THE MEETING UNTIL 9 A.M. NOVEMBER 13, 2020 FOR PAYMENT OF BILLS.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

8:20 P.M.

MINUTES OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED BENTON CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD MONDAY OCTOBER 26, 2020 AT 6:00 P.M.   PURSUANT TO THE GOVERNOR’S EXECUTIVE ORDER IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19 ISSUED MARCH 16, 2020, THIS MEETING WAS HELD BY TELEPHONE CONFERENCE AND COMPUTER ATTENDANCE ONLY.

MAYOR KONDRITZ CALLED THE MEETING TO ORDER.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ WERE PRESENT FOR ROLL CALL. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF OCTOBER 12, 2020.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

MAYOR KONDRITZ ASKED THE COUNCIL IF ANYONE HAD ANY COMMENTS ON THE RESURGENCE MITIGATION ISSUED BY GOVERNOR PRITZKER.  THE COUNCIL HAD NO COMMENT. 

THE MAYOR STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE PASS AN ORDINANCE PROHIBITING THE USE OF ATV’S ON CITY OWNED PROPERTIES.  COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO DIRECT ATTORNEY MALKOVICH, CHIEF OF POLICE MIKE ANDREWS, AND DAVID GARAVALIA TO PREPARE AN ORDINANCE PROHIBITING THE USE OF ATV’S ON CITY OWNED PROPERTIES.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  4.  COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH ABSTAINED. 

MAYOR KONDRITZ STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO DISCUSS ITEM (D) DISCUSSION AND/OR APPROVAL OF POSSIBLE PURCHASE AND DEMOLITION OF STRUCTURE ON PARCEL #08-456-009 IN EXECUTIVE SESSION. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS STATED THAT HE WANTED TO START HIS REPORT WITH SOME SUNSHINE.  COMMISSIONER PERKINS STATED THAT THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT HAS BEEN NOMINATED FOR WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT OF THE YEAR. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PAY ESTIMATE #1 TO WIGGS EXCAVATING FOR THE ROUTE 37 WATERMAIN RELOCATION IN THE AMOUNT OF $135,549.42.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH., VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO PAY INVOICE |#4 TO BROWN AND ROBERTS FOR THE AIRPORT TERMINAL PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $4,448.71.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PAYMENT OF A PARTIAL PAY ESTIMATE TO MIDWEST PETROLEUM AND EXCAVATING FOR THE AIRPORT TERMINAL PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $117,837.00.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE A CHANGE ORDER FOR THE AIRPORT TERMINAL BUILDING ADDING AN EXTENSION OF 60 DAYS TO COMPLETE THE CONTRACT FROM MIDWEST PETROLEUM AND EXCAVATING.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER STOREY.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

DISCUSSION WAS HELD REGARDING APPROVAL OF IMPROVEMENTS TO THE FORD GARAGE MUSEUM AND THE FRANKLIN COUNTY JAIL MUSEUM USING TIF FUNDS.  MOTION TO TABLE THIS ITEM UNTIL FURTHER RESEARCH HAS BEEN DONE WAS MADE BY COMMISSIONER PERKINS.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH STATED THAT THERE WAS A PROJECT STATUS REPORT FOR THE I-57 INTERCHANGE IN EACH OF THE COUNCIL MEMBERS PACKETS.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH ALSO STATED THAT THE 2020 ROAD PROGRAM HAS BEEN COMPLETED, THE SIDEWALK GRANT PROJECT IS 50% COMPLETED, AND THAT SAMRON SHOULD BEGIN ON THE EAST MAIN PARKING LOT EXTENSION BY THE END OF THE WEEK. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PAYROLL FOR THE GENERAL FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $62,752.22 AND FOR THE WATER AND SEWER DEPARTMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $27,177.55 FOR A TOTAL PAYROLL OF $89,929.77.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE FISCAL YEAR 2019-2020 FINANCIAL AUDIT REPORT COMPLETED BY ATLAS.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.   YEAS:  5. COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STARTED A DISCUSSION REGARDING THE CREATION OF A HOSPITALITY COMMITTEE.  DURING DISCUSSION, COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH QUESTIONED AS TO WHETHER THIS WAS SOMETHING THAT WAS NEEDED OR NOT AS THERE IS A REND LAKE TOURISM BOARD AND THE BENTON/WEST CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WHOSE FUNCTIONS ALSO ARE TO BE A SORT OF HOSPITALITY COMMITTEE.  NO ACTION WAS TAKEN ON THIS TOPIC. 

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT SHE WANTED TO THANK CITY CLERK BROOK CRAIG FOR PREPARING A COVID-19 BOOKLET FOR EACH DEPARTMENT HEAD TO AID IN AN EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS PLAN. 

ATTORNEY MALKOVICH STATED THAT A COUNTER PROPOSAL ON BARGAINING UNIT NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE WATER, SEWER, AND STREET DEPARTMENTS HAD BEEN RECEIVED ON THIS DATE.  ATTORNEY MALKOVICH STATED THAT CITY CLERK BROOK CRAIG WOULD PROVIDE EACH COUNCIL MEMBER WITH A COPY OF THE COUNTER PROPOSAL. 

NO MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS. 

UNDER OLD BUSINESS, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA STATED THAT HALLOWEEN HOURS HAVE BEEN SET FOR OCTOBER 31, 2020 FROM 5 P.M. TO 9 P.M.  SHE ASKED THAT THE CITIZENS RESPECT SOCIAL DISTANCING DURING TRICK OR TREATING. 

NO NEW BUSINESS.

NO MATTERS FROM THE PUBLIC AUDIENCE. 

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION FOR ITEM (A) DISCUSSION OF POSSIBLE ACQUISITION AND/OR SALE OF REAL ESTATE.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

7:00 P.M.

COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA MADE A MOTION TO RETURN TO REGULAR SESSION.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

7:10 P.M.

COMMISSIONER STOREY MADE A MOTION TO APPROVE PURCHASE OF PARCEL #08-18-456-009 FOR TAXES IN THE AMOUNT OF $825.00.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

COMMISSIONER PERKINS MADE A MOTION TO ADJOURN.  SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH.  VOTE WAS TAKEN.  YEAS:  5.  COMMISSIONER MESSERSMITH, COMMISSIONER PERKINS, COMMISSIONER STOREY, COMMISSIONER GARAVALIA, AND MAYOR KONDRITZ.  NAYS:  0. 

7:15 P.M.