McLean County Times

City of Pontiac Committee of the Whole met May 29.

Here are the minutes provided by the committee:

The Committee of the Whole meeting of the Pontiac City Council was held on May 29, 2024 at City Hall.

Mayor Alvey called to order the meeting at 5:30 P.M.

The City Clerk was directed to call roll, and the following members of the Council were present: Barr, Giovanini, Eckhoff, Kallas, Lee, Causer, Cranford, Howard and Wille.

Also attending: Mayor Alvey, City Administrator, and Department Heads.

Public Property

Discussion on the property at 220 W. Madison and the interest that has been received to purchase. Further information will be brought back to Council and there was also discussion on the use of the property, whether retail or service.

There has been interest in the property at 222. E. Timber St. by an adjoining property owner. Costs paid by the City was listed for Council.

Also interest by (2) regarding the property off Division street to gain access to their respective properties. Discussion on the possible use of a lease by the City.

The Illinois Housing Authority has contacted the City for a Video meeting with members to discuss what is involved when and if the Authority does a study and the process. It was decided to proceed with getting a date for the video meeting.

Centennial Plaza

Liz Vincent showed the Council the study and design suggestions by PCAV for the Centennial Plaza. The study showed when and where visitors have come from in the past for 2019 thru 2023 and concept planning goals, site plan development options for the area including flow of traffic, site elements, signage and items like car picnic tables and other Rt 66 elements. Next step would be costs. The 100th anniversary of Rt 66 is in 2025 and Pontiac is expected to be visited by Rt66 travelers.

Street Spray Patchier

Chris Brock found a 2023 Spray Patcher unit for $78,000.00 in Oklahoma. Training will be done by manufacturer. Census of Council was to go look at equipment and vote to come at next Council meeting for purchase.

Rec Center Generator

Discussion on the need for a generator at the Rec Center especially for safety regarding residents and visitors as a warming/cooling center and other as a major loss of electricity for whatever reason. Size of generator will be determined on what needs to be powered and for how long. Council's direction was to look for other bids. Grant monies will be looked at.

Public Safety Complex Painting

Estimates were given to Council on the painting of the Public Safety Complex. Foreign Fire Tax Fund can be used for painting expense. That fund would pay $18,910.00 and the City would pay the "police department portion" which would be $10.800.00. Bid will be brought back to Council for vote.

Building Solar Panels

Discussion on the possible use of solar panels on the building of the train depot, savings to the City for electricity at that building and whether it would be a return on the investment for the panels.

Pickle Ball Courts

Continued discussion on the need for the pickleballl courts and the costs. One bid given was for $222,248,000. Possible help from the schools and local partnerships with the trusts. More bids/quotes are needed.

It was noted that U of I Extension office will be holding a session on the "strategies of retaining young adults to come back to rural communities" on June 25th from 5:30 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.

Adjournment

With no further business to come before this session, the meeting was adjourned to the regular Council meeting.

https://www.pontiac.org/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_05292024-1062